So this is my wish for all
Jumat, 30 April 2010
I So Wish I Could
So this is my wish for all
HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN TINTED MOISTURIZER
Less is more when it comes to make- up this summer season. Too much make- up can clog our pores and can leave our faces with running and caking make- up. Doesn't seem like a good sight eh?
Foundation is an essential part of our everyday make- up routine. But during summer, it might be a bit heavy on the face. So if you don't want to spend for a new, lightweight but expensive foundation, opt for a tinted moisturizer. But if it's still kinda' out of your budget, here's how you can make your very own Tinted Moisturizer.
FOUNDATION
MOISTURIZER
SPATULA
EMPTY JAR, TUBE, ETC.
SPF CREAM (OPTIONAL)
*It's best to use products with SPF, so opt for existing products that are laden with SPF. But if your existing foundations and moisturizers don't have any, look for an SPF cream in your stash then include it in the list.
**IF YOU'RE USING AN SPF CREAM, APPLY WITH THE SAME AMOUNT OF THE MOISTURIZER. JUST ADD A BIT MORE OF THE FOUNDATION SO YOU'LL STILL GET SOME COVERAGE.
Rabu, 28 April 2010
AND THE WINNER FOR MY FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY IS...
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Z.E.N. ORGANICS MOSQUITO REPELLANT
Here's an initial review on Z.E.N. ORGANICS MOSQUITO REPELLENT LOTION
PRICE: 100PHP
PLACE BOUGHT: http://zen.multiply.com
OTHER LOCATIONS: SM MAKATI; ONLINE RESELLERS
I've finished my Messy Bessy Insect Repellant spray. Since an insect repellant has become an important item for me wherever I go, I decided to try other brands, specifically stuff from organic skin care lines. I'm trying my best to substitute some of the commercial skin care products that I use with organic stuff so that I would somehow lessen the amount of chemicals that I apply on my skin.
So for my first organic products, I purchased some from Z.E.N., which is an abbreviation for Zestful, Organic, and Natural.
I managed to purchase from one of the main distributors so I got the mosquito repellant at a cheap price.
I'm almost done with my tube. So I think it's now time to review this product.
Okay, so Z.E.N.'s mosquito repellent lotion is lightweight. It has a nice citronella scent that fades off after a few minutes of application.
But what I don't like about this lotion is, it has the tendency to become watery when it is left in a car that's parked under the sun, or if you apply it without shaking it well. It's kinda' messy, and I think it also lessens the effectiveness of the product.
The staying power is not good as well. It only stayed for a good two hours. The Messy Bessy repellant stayed for at least four.
Another thing that I don't like about it is, it's in lotion form. I really don't like lotion. And I'm the type of person who would just like to spray, rub and go. That's why the spritzer- type repellant really works for me.
Overall, I didn't like it. It's not so bad. But it's not good either. It's good if you're only going stay indoors and would just like to use a lightweight repellant on your skin. But if you're gonna use this outdoors, this will not last long. I suggest that you go for heavy duty repellants. And if you have sweaty legs, then this is not for you because in my observation, this just leaves a film that's easily washed or rubbed off. It's not a type that goes absorbed into the skin. And of course, I will not repurchase.
Selasa, 27 April 2010
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: VMV ARMADA FACE COVER SPF 30
PRICE: 660PHP
PLACE BOUGHT: VMV HYPOALLERGENICS, ALABANG TOWN CENTER
OTHER LOCATIONS: POWERPLANT MALL; THE FORT HIGH STREET; GLORIETTA 2
I bought this just for the sake of having a Face Sunblock for my Laiya beach trip. I told hubby that I didn't want to use sunblock for a deeper tan. Good thing, I changed my mind because I still suffered a major sunburn on the shoulders even if I had spf 75 on. Whew! That change of mind saved my face from frying!
I decided not to buy big tubes of face sunblock anymore. My Nivea has expired and I haven't even used 20% of it! Tsk tsk. What a waste of money. And these sunblocks are quite cakey on the skin, so it's not a good idea to slather this on if you're planning to take pictures on the beach because white lotion streaks will show. So I prefer SPF laden products when it comes to primers, moisturizers or even make- up.
So I went to VMV and got meself the Armada Face Cover.
Years ago, I got myself one when this was still newly released. It was bad that's why I never purchased one again after emptying my first tube.
The old formulation is like this: It's thick, quite hard to spread, and feels hot on the face. And it also leaves a glossy finish, which I didn't like. The product also had an electric blue tinge, which may be the culprit behind the glossy finish on the skin.
While hubby and I were waiting for our dinner orders, I dropped by VMV and checked out what they had to offer.
Armada was already out of the question. But it's the only recommended sunblock for people who will go swimming or strolling under the sun.
Good thing I decided to squeeze some of the product on my skin. If not, I wouldn't know that this has been reformulated.
Below are reasons on why you should get VMV Armada Face Cover. In the meantime, check out how VMV works wonders in shielding your skin from UVA, UVB and other artificial and harmful rays.
A bit of info regarding UVA, UCV, and UVB rays.
UVA is what causes skin aging, and UVB rays are also known as the "Tanning Rays". While UVC is what causes sunburn, and is definitely the known killer ray from the sun, which causes different sun- related skin diseases and much worse, death. UVC rays have been stronger due to the depletion of the Ozone Layer.
And FYI, you can be affected with Ultraviolet Rays too even if you're just at home.
How's that possible?
Artificial rays are caused by indoor lighting such as bulbs, fluorescents, etc. And radiation rays (aka Tanning Bed rays) can also cause death, if exposure to it is prolonged or frequent.
SPF lotions are not just for vanity. It's for a reason. We only have one skin, so we should take care of it.
And VMV also has a skin lightening ingredient. The brand claims that Armada is an effective skin lightening product for Melasma, which is a condition wherein a person develops dark brown patches on the face. It is caused by pregnancy, genetic disposition, and prolonged sun exposure.
Not only that, the skin lightening ingredient, according to the brand, can also whiten sun spots.
What's great about this product is, you can use it on a daily basis! That's the reason why I don't like face sunblocks that are only meant for the beach. They come in big tubes, and they are not well- absorbed by the skin!
The tube is also handy. It can fit in your bags and in tiny spaces..
It also comes in SPF 45, which is a tad expensive.
The VMV Face Cover also comes in a bigger tube, which is priced at around 1k+.
For reference, I have oily skin and this didn't aggravate my skin nor did it induce oil production. I am so in love with it and I'm definitely getting this again after emptying this one!
LAST WEEK AND THIS WEEK'S HAULS
In the meantime, esta mis recorridos para la semana. :)
Wanna know why?
Minggu, 25 April 2010
LAIYA LOVIN' (PICTURE HEAVY)
Let me tell you (and convince you) why Laiya is a must- go place for beach lovers like me.
Laiya is in the city of Batangas. It's a 3-hr. drive from Manila. The tip is to leave early so you won't catch traffic, especially in the major towns of Batangas. The roads in the major towns are quite small and are traffic- prone. And if you get there at around 10am, you still have time to rest before dipping in the crystal clear waters and before you bask in the white sand.
The place we stayed in is called BALAI SA LAIYA. It's one of the cheapest resorts in the area. But cheap doesn't mean dirty or 'jologs' (I'm sorry, I can't think of a better term).
Balai sa Laiya is a good place for honeymooners due to the quietness of the place. Most of the people who are staying there are also couples, and some families who prefer a quiet stay in Laiya.
Don't fret, Balai sa Laiya is definitely budget- friendly. I also love bargain deals because I'm still a student living on allowance. Each room can accommodate two people. Hubby and I paid 2050 each for the food and the room. They don't offer ala carte foods 'cos you actually pay for the set meals. And the meals are in the buffet- style. The food there is actually good! :)
And if you want to drink or if you're looking for a place for ala carte menus, Its neighboring resort, Acuatico, accommodates visitors who just want to dine or drink.
Let me share to you pictures of my piece of heaven last week in Laiya
WHERE DID YOU GO OR WHERE DO YOU PLAN TO GO ON YOUR SUMMER GETAWAY?
Sabtu, 24 April 2010
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: DAVIDOFF COOLWATER FOR WOMEN
Here's an initial review on DAVIDOFF COOLWATER FOR WOMEN
PRICE: 400PHP (GIVEAWAY PRICE)
PLACE BOUGHT: GIRLTALK
OTHER LOCATIONS: AUTHORIZED PERFUME RETAILERS; PX STORES
This has got to be my most favorite perfume of all time. I've been hooked on perfumes ever since I had my first whiff of this perfume when I was in 6th grade. Back then, this was new, and it is priced at around 4k, the would- be regular price of current perfume releases.
This is in my waiting list for quite a year now. I've had a lot of perfumes and I can't seem to find myself purchasing one after every bottle that I empty. Maybe I'm in the mood as of the moment to try something new--always.
Let's now review this scent.
Davidoff Coolwater for women is a floral citrus scent. The scent is perfect to spritz on on a light and sunny day, and still, manages to be perfect for use in warm summer nights.
At first, the scent goes off as citrusy. You could smell the tangy lemon scent on the first spray. Then it slowly settles down to a smell that's very symbolic of water. I don't know, Sea Breeze scent, perhaps? Then, it finally lingers to a citrusy, floral smell.
However, the staying power is not that good though. The perfume only stayed for a good 2 hours. But heck, I've rekindled my love for this perfume. In fact, I've been using it for a week now!
I always smile whenever I put this on. Maybe it just reminded me of the old school days, where I would ask for this on my birthday. And maybe because of the fact that it's counterpart, Davidoff Coolwater for Men is also hubby's HG perfume. He's been using it ever since he was in Grade 6. And now that he's 33, he still can't find "the" scent that will beat good ol' Davidoff!
What a coincidence. We both smelt this perfume when we were in 6th grade, and the Coolwater line happens to be our HG scent. Now, isn't that worth smiling about? :)
Jumat, 23 April 2010
EARTH DAY ENTRIES PART 2: 5 THINGS THAT YOU SHOULD KNOW WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU THROW YOUR TRASH IN THE SEA

1. If you throw those round plastic thingies that are used to hold 6-pack beers or sodas in the sea, birds who dart in the sea to catch fishes can get trapped in these round plastics. Doesn't sound too much trouble to you eh? Well, here's the thing. When they grow, their necks also expand and become almost as big as their heads. And they can't take these round plastic rings off of their necks on their own. And these round plastics are quite sturdy, so no amount of pecking from other birds can remove it from their necks, until a human intentionally does it. And they will end up dead due to choking. Unless you're drowning or Poseidon wrecked havoc on your ship, there is no reason for you not to bring your trash back to the shore and properly place it in a trash bin. And before it gets accidentally thrown in the sea, be sure to cut a portion of the rings so if a birdie gets stuck in it, it'll just fall off of their necks.
2. Physical wastes such as mineral water bottles, plastic cups, etc. will not dissolve in the sea no matter if it's already drifting in it for a hundred years. And if people keep on throwing wastes in the sea, you'll have a bigger version of Pasig River. Plastic colorants can fade and get mixed in the sea which will eventually poison the fishes. the Doesn't sound too good eh? So do yourself a favor. DISPOSE YOUR TRASH PROPERLY.
3. DO NOT THROW PLASTIC BAGS IN THE SEA. I REPEAT. DO NOT THROW PLASTIC BAGS IN THE SEA. Wanna know why? Well, sea turtles eat jellyfish. They like it so much. Yep, your analogy is right. These plastic bags may look like delicacy to them, so they end up chewing on it. Plastic doesn't dissolve right? So turtles who get to eat plastics die of poisoning and choking. A lot of dead turtles have been found in the shores of Bicol. And when they were dissected to find out the reason behind their deaths, the marine scientists always see plastics stuck in the throats of the sea turtles. And the ratio is 8 out of 10. So prove to yourself that you know better by not throwing your plastic bags in the sea. Or better yet, don't use plastic! Buy those eco- friendly tote bags. They're more stylish and are likely to last forever.
4. Do not throw shampoo, conditioner, or soap sachets in the sea. They still contain some of the soapy substance so the chemicals in it can poison baby fishes, turtles, and other smaller marine animals.
5. Whatever trash you see floating in the sea, especially near the shore, try your best to pick it up, compile it and throw it in a trash bin after swimming. That way, you are doing the environment a big favor. And if you're smoking, please, don't throw your cigarette butts in the sea because some fishes will think that it's food, so they'll eat up, and they end up dead due to nicotine poisoning or choking.
The ocean is our provider. In fact, it is LIFE in its own right. What we fail to realize is that we are bringing ourselves to destruction by continuously defacing our environment.
"Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
-- Margaret Mead
EARTH DAY ENTRIES PART 1: WHY I THINK THAT YOU DON'T MEAN WHAT YOU SAY WHEN YOU SAY "I LOVE THE BEACH"

"The Drowning in Batangas" photo credits from yoshke.com
I was enjoying my time in the beach. Basking on the shore, strolling along the beach, and soaking in the grandiose and clear blue waters of Laiya.
Then every time I would turn, I would always see trash. From cups to food wrappers. All floating in the sea, slowly accumulating, and will wreck havoc in time on the sea and it's marine life.
It wasn't that disturbing though. I didn't let it ruin my vacation. But after the getaway, the images of the dead fishes and trash kept on recurring in my head.
We keep on saying that we love the beach. But what kind of "LOVE" are we exactly talking about?
We love the beach? I think that the context of this oh-so-famous summer line, as famous as the word "Amen" is all about the superficial kind of love. In fact, it is a selfish love. We love the beach and all its glory because we only love ourselves.
And if a beach becomes wasted and ends up not like how it was before, we abandon it. Much worse, we leave along all our wastes that resulted to its defacement.
Then we embark on a search for a new destination. For us to enjoy, and to deface.
Who's to blame? Of course, we turn our heads and point our fingers to those who did it. But have you ever asked yourself,
HAVE I DID SOMETHING BENEVOLENT TO MOTHER NATURE LATELY?
The offenders of the environment are the ones to blame.
And those who are mum and are indifferent about it are to blame either.
WE ARE TO BLAME FOR THE DETERIORATION OF OUR PLANET.
I'd like to believe that we are indeed the worst kind of species.
We kill our animals for materialism and greed.
We spoil our waters and we continuously abuse our marine life.
We destroy our forests for personal profit and gain.
AND WE EVEN KILL OUR OWN KIND!
Isn't that worth saying that we are, without a doubt, THE WORST INHABITANTS OF THIS PLANET?
It's Earth Day. It's time that we make a change. And it's time for a change.
Think about it. Before it's too too late.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: THE BODY SHOP OLIVE DRY OIL MIST
PRICE:ORIGINALLY 795PHP, THEN GOT IT ON A P100 OFF SALE (695PHP)
PLACE BOUGHT: THE BODY SHOP, POWERPLANT MALL, ROCKWELL, MAKATI CITY
OTHER LOCATIONS: THE BODY SHOP STORES IN MALLS NATIONWIDE
Say goodbye to thick and gunky lotions because oil is definitely a must- have this summer.
Personally, I prefer the latter than the former. Especially now that the Dry Oil Mist has been invented for a less greasy feel.
TBS's Dry Olive Oil Mist is one must- have for beach babes this summer. This dry olive oil mist comes in a handy spritzer bottle so you can just spray, spread and go. Plus, you can tote this around anywhere without worrying that it might spill in your bag.
I love the scent. It comes off a bit strong at first, but the scent dies down a bit, then it lingers; But not so much that it's already clashing with the perfume that you are currently wearing.
And for tanned chicks out there, I highly recommend using oils for moisturizing because it keeps your skin glowing and looking luxuriously sexy. Dry oil mists leave your skin with a bit of sheen, without the greasiness and slick.
Apart from the sun proof lipbalms, waterproof lip and cheek tints, and tinted moisturizers, make sure that you keep your skin looking healthy and pretty as well under the sun.
Kamis, 22 April 2010
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: MAC LIPSTICK IN BLOOMING LOVELY (LIBERTY OF LONDON COLLECTION)
Here's an initial review on MAC LIPSTICK IN BLOOMING LOVELY (LIBERTY OF LONDON COLLECTION)
PRICE: 950PHP
PLACE BOUGHT: FROM A SWAP
OTHER LOCATIONS: MAC BOUTIQUES: GLORIETTA, SHANGRI-LA, MARIONNAUD SM MALL OF ASIA, POWERPLANT MALL, ROCKWELL
THE VERDICT:
I tried this lippie on when I visited MAC Glorietta to pick up my Petals and Peacocks. I was almost tempted to buy it along with Ever Hip but decided not to because I've been spending a lot lately. Time to replenish my savings because it's going below than my standard amount ever since I started being addicted to make- ups again.
I actually missed my Lavender Whip lippie which is the reason why I was itching to get a Blooming Lovely. And the heavens heard my silent longing, and Ms. Dinna, an avid blog reader was sent by the heavens to fulfill my desire. She offered me her Blooming Lovely in exchange of a hot pink lippie. But I have no more hot pink lippies because I've sold my Schiap, and I am madly in love with my Petals and Peacocks. But good thing, she decided to get Stars 'N Rockets in exchange of Blooming Lovely. And I'm so happy that she liked it so much.
Please refer to the Petals and Peacock review for the review on the packaging.
Blooming Lovely is a creamy lipstick. It glides on smoothly, and is non- drying. The color is lilac with gray undertones, which makes this a violet nude lippie.
The reason why I was tempted to get this when I tried this on is because, it looked nice on me when I was in the store. Well, artificial lighting enlightens your face and the colors differently, But natural lighting can be such a bitch.
The gray undertone made the color look really bad. It's the kind of color that would look good on bags, but not on the lips. Oh yeah, and on shoes too. In fact, this shade won't even look good as an eye liner!
I would choose my Lavender Whip lippie anytime over this, despite the fact that Lavender Whip is quite one tough color to pull off. Blooming lovely made me look like a corpse (which is the reason why Ms.Dinna gave this away). I had a deeper tan from my beach trip, which made the color stand out a bit. But the color just looks lifeless and tasteless. Methinks that this is better off to use in costume parties (particularly halloween) or avant- garde make- up looks. But it will really raise eyebrows if you wear this on a daily basis.
One more thing, it makes my teeth look garish and yellowish!
Hubby told me that it looks okay, but it's not really a good color. Oh I have to love my hubby for being nice, but this color appears too off, no matter how hard I think that this shade might have a potential.
Oh well, there you go buried in my stash Blooming Lovely. But if you really like it, and have read this review prior to purchasing it, I suggest that you still get it. We all have different tastes and skin colors, so whatever that didn't work for me, might work for you. On the other hand, this color might work on fair- skinned ladies. But for morenas or tanned ladies like me, it's a disaster.
LOVE PACKAGE
Missed blogging to death. But the beach escape was so worth it. I have tons of upcoming reviews for you my lovely dearies, and I'll share to you snapshots from my wonderful Laiya escape!
And here's a love package courtesy of one of my avid and beloved readers, Ms. Dinna. :)
Wanna know what the lippie is? :)
REVIEWS TO FOLLOW! :)
I had sooo much fun in Laiya! Will post the pics. For those who want to have a beach summer escapade on a budget, Laiya is the place to be!