My Skincare Routine Updated

I have been asked about my skincare routine often either on Makeup Alley or in private e-mail. Therefore, I decided to comply a list of what I am currently using so my readers can have a scope of what's in by my book at the moment. Should there be any changes ( and I am sure there will be) in the future, I will update accordingly.


I want to bring to my readers' attention that I try to stick to drugstore (and/or natural) products when it comes to skincare. These are the reasons:


1. They are more accessible in terms of locations and prices. Should I be relocated to a different town or country, it is more likely for me to obtain similar products.


2. Drugstore/natural products tend to have less ingredients in them which means less chemicals (irritants) added to my skin, regardless my skin's sensitivity.


3. I believe skincare should cost less as they get to be used more often than coloured makeup. And whether or not economy's good, one should be able to maintain the standard of her skincare routine. It's a lot easier to stop buying colours but it's far more difficult to cut out a HG skincare product.



OK, having said that, it doesn't mean that I wipe out the entire high end skincare industry. If something works miraculously, I will overrule my claims. Ha! Seriously, if a product works perfectly well, I'd stick to it unless there is an equal match at a lower price. :)

Organic Aid Cleansing Foam

(I have removed this product from my routine as I have concerns about it.)

This is a new addition to my skincare family. I use this to wash my face in the morning. I also use this as a 2-in-1 product when I don't have the time to use a separate oil (normally olive oil for the face) to remove makeup before washing my face as it's sufficient enough to remove all traces of makeup.


This product is very gentle. It doesn't strip off my skin. Instead, it leaves my skin a supple feeling when touched. My skin feels smooth after cleansed without any tightened sensation. I admit that I sometimes forget to moisturise my face after washing it but I haven't had any drying issue if using this product. I feel the added 1000I.U pure Vitamin E (from wheatgerm oil) does its job well. But I am not a scientist so I will just leave it as it is for now.


By the way, although this is American owned and made, it is not listed on Organic Aid. I have no idea why is it so. I hope some of my US readers also have immediate access to this at your local drugstores. I'd like to hear from those who have seen or tried this! Thanks!


PS: I have e-mailed to Organic Aid for more information. I will update this post if I get any feedback.





UPDATE 01/June/2009: I received this reply. I am in shock!


Unfortunately, we no longer handle the customer service or ordering processes for Organic Aid. They still have our contact information on their website, but I suspect the website is out of date and perhaps not maintained, as we have not handled their processing for over 2 years, but they still show our information on their website.


We receive many calls about their company, but we have no knowledge of where they have moved to, or even if the product is still being manufactured.


We wish you good luck in your search.


-Virginia at JFC Sales

JFC Sales-Sales -Support-Solutions



I quickly checked the EXPIRATION DATE on the tube I am using. And there is a line said 18212. I am assuming it expires on 18/ February/2012 (hopefully)? I am going to call around to see if I could get the local distributor. I am very sure this brand is well alive here in Malaysia. They have new products out, not just the old ones. Perhaps they just stopped using the old advertise in the USA. I will update this when I can.

H2O+ Face Oasis Hydrating Treatment (oil-free)

A while back, couple of us local beauty bloggers were invited to review some products from H2O+, an US based skincare company. I tried two products and this had to join my HG family in the end...


I thought it was good but I didn't know it was great!!! As a result, I have purchased my second jar after the first free full sized tester was used up. This is part of the price to pay for testing products I guess. When you find something excellent, it stays with you!


I use this product after washing my face in the morning. After sleeping in an air-conditioned room the whole night, my skin enjoys a drink of this water based treatment. It doesn't sink into my face as fast as some other moisturisers. But once it sinks in, I can feel the difference. It really hydrates my skin without adding any oil. I feel my face finally wakes up, if that makes any sense?


It is a perfect canvas for sunscreen and makeup in this heat. However, if you are in a 4-season country, I'd suggest reserving this for summer time only. I have dry skin and I still don't like the oily sensation from moisturiser so this oil-free, water based treatment is just the right thing.

Natopherol Dermal (Skin Defense - E, Skin Protection DAY with SPF 30, Skin Rejuvenation NIGHT)

This is another great invention for skincare, especially for dry skin. It's basically vitamin E oil trapped in a capsule. It's convenient for travelling and it does its job to moisturise the skin really well. It's fast absorbing which I think is vital for an oil. I hate to walk around with an oily face even though my face needs it.


I tend to use this when my face feels extra dry some mornings or use it at night when I don't do vitamin E oil mask. There are 3 types and I think they are not much different but more an issue of personal preference. Please refer to my review for details.

The Cancer Council Australia – Ultra Sunscreen SPF 30+

I use this sunscreen everyday. I normally use the Ultra and sometimes the Sport when I am doing outdoor activities. (The Natural doesn't work for me.)


I use this product after the application of H2O+ Hydrating Treatment or Natopherol Dermal Vitamin E Oil or directly onto my bare face. It also serves as a protective barrier for makeup.


I did the most stupid thing - sunbathing without proper sun protection during my early 20's and I am paying for it with
hyper-pigmentation (brown spots on my cheeks). And I have also had moles removed from my neck, if not just for the aesthetic reason...


This is an all body product. I use it on my face as well as any other parts of my body that's exposed, regardless it's sunny cloudy or raining. As long as there is light, there is possible damage to the skin.

Coconut Oil

This is a multiple purpose oil. But it is normally used as an eye makeup remover in my case. Though sometimes I use it to remove all the makeup on my face but I find virgin olive oil does a quicker, faster and more thorough job for the face.


I like it as an eye makeup remover as it's super gentle and doesn't stink nor cloud my eyes. However, it takes a few soaks to remove the heavy waterproof makeup I wear, especially the stubborn mascara. But it truly cleanses thoroughly. It's also 100% natural so there is no risk of getting extra unwanted ingredients.


I can easily find this product on a supermarket shelf here in Malaysia. However, it might not be an easy item to locate if you aren't in a tropical country. I have read that it's sold in whole food stores or organic grocers in other countries. (Please correct me if I am wrong!) But if you have a chance to try it, do have a go! The coconut scent isn't scary. I promise!

Eucerin Sensitive Skin White Solution Gentle Cleansing Foam

(It's already reviewed! Please click on the link above or the product picture.)

Some of you may be surprised to find a whitening product in my routine. Well, it is not a whitening product for me but merely a cleaning foam. Honestly, I don't see my skin whitened nor brightened after used this product for more than a month.


I liked Eucerin Gentle Cleansing Gel years back but it couldn't remove all traces of makeup. So when I spotted Eucerin released a similar new product, I had to give it a try. I know I like to double cleanse my face with an oil before a cleanser. But for some reason, I am always looking for that perfect cleanser that removes everything in one go, just in case I can't carry too many things with me...


This cleansing foam is surprisingly super foamy. A little bit goes a long way and the foams are super fine too. It removes all traces of makeup and cleanses my face at the same time. (Eye makeup not included as I don't have the courage to try this on my eyes!)


Although my face is thoroughly cleansed without feeling tight or dry, I don't use this product when I don't wear makeup basically because I have dry skin and it cleanses too well. I leave this tube in the shower and only use it at night, with a pre-wash of an oil or without.

Eucerin Dermo Purifyer Scrub

(yet to review...)

I bought this after I saw uneven skin and pores on a FOTD (14/May) taken under natural overcast daylight! Gosh, that picture just woke me up like no others! I recalled a reader once wrote to me about how to minimize pore size and I said I didn't know if there was such a product. I guess I never really looked into this area because I had been lucky...


Anyway, upon seeing that picture, I started doing Pure Vitamin E Oil Treatment (picture below) intensively as I knew it could possibly be the result of laziness. And at the same time, I was hunting for a scrub or mask or something that looked promising. (Honestly, I hadn't done either for the longest time!)


So while I was browsing through in a local drugstore, I spotted this new product from Eucerin. (Not so new but new for me...) I decided to give it a try as Eucerin products generally worked for me. Though this product was listed for acne prone skin, I thought it should be all right for me too if I didn't do it too often.


And I really think it works! Though it doesn't size down pores per say, it does make them less showy. I don't know how to describe this properly. But I don't see unsightly pores near my nose now, not on a picture anyway. And my nose looks a lot cleaner as well. I will follow up with the review soon. (I know I have been lagging on reviews!)

Colonial Dames Pure Vitamin E Oil

Like I mentioned above, this is a weekly must-have treatment for me. And when I don't do it regularly for whatever reason, I see the difference. I can't live without this oil. Period.


This is an ultra sticky oil that's not meant for daytime use. It's best to use this at night while you are sleeping. The sticky oil will slowly penetrate into your pores and fine lines and does its miracle and you will wake up with a new face that has less showy lines and pores. And you'd feel your skin bouncy, plumped and smooth to the touch. It's an overnight result. I kid you not. This product also helps scar healing. Though I can't give you the estimation nor will I show you how much that cesarean scare left on my bikini line, I can assure you that this product is a staple in my family. We use it on any scars and scratches, even for a healing mosquito bite!

Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar (As Toner)

I have to say that my review on this product is outdated by now as I no longer use it regularly and nor do I mix it with Green Tea anymore. It is a very strong product in both strength and scent. It's best to be diluted for beginners and see how your skin reacts before making it more concentrated. I am using its full strength now without any water/liquid added.


This is the product I use when my face feels extra icky. It cleans up pores like no others. Even when I use it, I only use it at night after all makeup removed and my face cleansed properly. I'd follow up with a moisturiser so it doesn't cut my skin. It's something I leave in my bathroom for emergency now more than a must-have.


If you have large pores that attract dirt easily, this is the product to try. Once your face's cleaned, cut back the frequency like I did.

Eucerin Sensitive Skin pH5 Washlotion for body and face

This is an all-in-one product. It is a shower gel, facial wash, shampoo for little children and a lovely bubble bath foam.


I had been using it for all the mentioned purposes for years and only started adding new stuff to my skincare routine recently as I am much older now and my skin could use extra boost. However, this product remains a must-have in my bathroom as it's so friendly on sensitive skin (for my son) and cleanses well too. I can't tell you how many giant (1 liter) bottles I have gone through over the years. There is something that you just can't change in your life and this is one for me. It's that good.












There are also products like Aqueous Cream or Urea Cream that I use on my sensitive and easily cracked feet and Eucerin pH5 Lotion F that I use when I travel to a 4-season country. I don't use them as often as other products mentioned above because of the humid tropical weather in Malaysia. And there is also the vital Extra Virgin Olive Oil (reviewed!) that I have never written a review about but use regularly as face makeup remover and moisturiser. (I just find it hard to review it and there are so many posts about this online already!)


This is quite an exhausting post. I hope I have not left out anything important...






Related Posts:

Review: H2O+ Face Oasis™ Hydrating Treatment (Oil-Free)

Skincare Brand: H2O Plus (+), Chicago USA

Review: Natopherol Dermal (Skin Defense - E, Skin Protection DAY with SPF 30, Skin Rejuvenation NIGHT)

Review: The Cancer Council Australia – Ultra Sunscreen SPF 30+

Review: Coconut Oil - A Multi-Tasking Product

Review: Colonial Dames Pure Vitamin E Oil

Review: Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar (As Toner)

Review: Eucerin Sensitive Skin pH5 Washlotion for body and face

Review: Aqueous Cream

Skin Care/Thoughts: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Review/Swatch/FOTD/Comparison: Make Up For Ever High Definition Invisible Cover Foundation #125 Sand vs. Liquid Lift #2 Ivory

Make Up For Ever High Definition Invisible Cover Foundation

Product Description:


What it is:
An oil-free medium-to-full-coverage liquid foundation that covers skin imperfections flawlessly while remaining invisible on-screen and in real life.

What it does:
Creates a soft-focus effect, designed to meet the coverage concerns of those in the spotlight. It creates a complexion that looks flawless, even in bright or harsh lighting.

What else you need to know:
This foundation comes in 25 different shades to suit all skintones. - Sephora



Colour/Texture:


I have been reading so much about this foundation since it's released. But I didn't get into the craze for the longest time because of the following reasons.


1. Our local Make Up For Ever had been slow in bringing in more shades... These were the only 5 colours for the longest time.

Swatches - 115, 120, 125, 140, 155

2. Since I had been very satisfied with Liquid Lift #2 for a long time, and I had just bought another bottle when High Definition was newly introduced, I thought I'd better wait it out. (There is no return nor exchange policy for makeup in Malaysia.)


3. My sister-in-law was on a business trip to the US and returned with a bottle of High Definition #118 Flesh. When tried it on, I was sold by its amazing photoshop finish! I really wanted it! However, #118 was my sister-in-law's perfect match, not mine. It was a bit too dark and yellow on me. After revisiting the local counter, the sales assistant suggested me waiting for the new colours. (She told me that the local Make Up For Ever just changed a new boss and the new person in charge was eager to bring in more products and at a faster speed!)


So I waited... Then I finally got a call to inform me more shades had arrived while I was on vacation. As I had been busy since returning home, I couldn't visit the counter till few days ago. That long waited possible new shade, #117 Marble turned out to be a total mismatch for my skin tone! Make Up For Ever's number system is just plain disgusting! I wonder how on earth did they come up with such illogical method???!!!


After comparing all the available shades with my HG Liquid Lift #2, it was certain that #125 Sand, an old existing shade was still the best colour for me. Actually, it's the perfect match! Imagine that I had waited for so long just to go back to a colour that's always been there!

Swatches - current available shades in Malaysia

(No flashlight, indoor natural overcast daylight.)









High Definition #120 & #125 vs. Liquid Lift #2

These are the two closest matches for my HG Liquid Lift #2.

Testing #118 Flesh

This collage shows why I fell in love with High Definition finish. Though I can wear this colour, it's still a bit too yellow and dark for me. There was a slight difference between my face and neck when I wore it.

It is obvious that High Definition has very different texture compared to Liquid Lift. As the name suggested, Liquid Lift is running, thus takes longer to dry. High Definition is a cream foundation so it dries faster on the skin in comparison. But it doesn't dry up too fast so my skin never appears cakey.


The finish is an air-brushed canvas. My face looks slightly photoshopped but no where as fake as a mannequin. It has slightly above medium coverage as it's able to cover up fine lines and minor flaws (while Liquid Lift is more like a Tinted Moisturiser in comparison.)

FOTD with High Definition #125

Please don't mind the 2 pimple scars on my jar line. (They are healing!) Just pay attention to the colour match for my skin tone. There is no difference between the face and the neck as far as I can see. I am very happy with the match!


I set my camera on Macro as always so you can see more details. This FOTD was done without any primer so you can see its true finish. The soft focus diffused the pores and fine lines very well but nothing plastic-like. I only used 6 tiny pumps on the forehead, cheeks, nose and the chin.

Packaging/Price:


There are not many changes compared to my Liquid Lift Foundation in terms of packaging. However, Make Up For Ever has improved on a major packaging flaw found in Liquid Lift. The little transparent plastic cap on Liquid Lift is only a placed-on while the big black cap on High Definition is a clicked-on. I really appreciate this replacement as the small cap on my Liquid Lift has 2 big cracks because it fell onto the floor a couple of times.


Both bottles are made of heavy glass. I prefer a light weight plastic container that's more travel-friendly but I know many people like a heavy duty glass bottle. I guess it's up to personal preference.


The High Definition is retailed for 135MYR/$40USD. It is still 30ml/1.01fl. oz.

My Verdict:


I love this foundation! I could have gotten this #125 Sand long ago but I am glad I waited as I got to utilize my Liquid Lift. (If you paid attention to the picture above, you'd observed that there is only fraction of Liquid Lift left.)


I had to try out High Definition because my HG Liquid Lift has been discontinued in the USA. I have the feeling it may be taken off our local market in the future. I am lucky to find a perfect match and I am happy that this foundation hasn't caused any reactions for me. This is an oil-free foundation and should suit most skin types. However, I know some people with very oily skin can't use this. Therefore, my suggestion is to try it out in person before you jump the queue. It's not a limited edition item so it won't go anywhere for a long time.


I waited and it's worth it. A makeup addict also has to have a bit of sense sometimes! :)


Lastly, this is an excellent, down to earth review on Make Up For Ever products by kuuipo1207. I really like her honest, non-objective style. Please do have a go if you are interested in Make Up For Ever High Definition products.

Make Up For Ever High Definition Products Review

PS: If you have read my review on Make Up For Ever High Definition Foundation Primer and High Definition Powder, you'd know that I have quite different opinions from her review. I reckon it's good to have different views so you can compare notes. :)






Ingredients:

Related Posts:

Review: Make Up For Ever Liquid Lift Foundation (2 ivory)

Review: Make Up For Ever High Definition Powder

Review/FOTD: Make Up For Ever High Definition Microperfecting Primer #2 Mauve



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Question/Thoughts: Dior Addict Lip Glow/Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect/DiorKiss - Summer 09; Powder Eye Shadow & Brush Care; Makeup Usage

Question: (Snipped) Could you please do a review on the dior addict lip glow?? been dying to know how that item fares. (...snipped)



I was planning to do a review on all the lip products from Dior Summer Collection 2009. However, after I went to the counter to try out the items included in this collection, I realized that it was no point for me to write a whole post to bitch about them. (So you know that I wasn't too impressed.)


I want to clarify some factors with my readers first. Dior is fantastic in creating (recycling) colours and names for its products (especially lip products!) in different countries (or even different department stores in the same country!) Therefore, what you are getting in your country can be entirely different from what we get here. But frat not, because our limited edition colours for this season may be coming to your way soon or have been released under different names in the past in your part of the world!


Confused much? Well, I'd say just swatch the colours or look at the pictures of swatches (if you have no access) and decide if it's a colour for you. Forget about it's a limited edition or whatever exclusive!


So please look at the swacthes I have done in this picture. I've only tested Lip Glow and Lip Glosses this time.

Lip Product Swatches, Dior Summer 2009

I thought Dior Addict Lip Glow was a joke. It was a just a tinted lip balm. And it didn't show well on me after I swatched, swatched and swatched. The sales assistant wasn't very happy with me doing that repeatedly. (She commented that there wasn't much product left in that tube!) And that darn thing cost a whoopy 88MYR/$28USD! If I wanted a coloured lip balm, I'd go for Clarins Colour Quench Lip Balm instead because they are far more pigmented! So what if it is "a color-awakening lip balm with SPF 10"? If I really wanted a tinted lip balm with SPF, I'd rather find a drugstore alternative. There are better ways to spend $$$.





As I have never tried Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect nor DiorKiss Luscious Lip-Plumping Gloss, I decided to test the 4 colours from this season to see how they get on.


The two Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect (88MYR/25.50USD) shades we get for this summer are 377 Nylon Pink (Limited Edition) and 647 Vinyl Coral. The name REFLECT is rather misleading as not all colours from this line (inculding the ones released before this collection) are shimmery and sparkling. You can see very well that 647 Vinyl Coral is only glossy while 377 Nylon Pink is ultra sparkling with reflects. The texture is smooth and the colour distributes evenly. It is not runny nor sticky. I'd say it's just the right consistency for gloss. Unfortunately, I don't find either colour unique and I am sure I have similar colours in my stash already.





DiorKiss Luscious Lip-Plumping Glosses were a major disappointment...


These are the reasons:


1. I didn't like the packaging one bit. I had a big problem pulling the cap off. I kept trying to unscrew it open when there was nothing for me to do so! I couldn't believe Dior made a gloss with a cap that's just placed on top of the tube. It's a point to ponder...


2. The texture was awful. It's not smooth and the pigments weren't evenly distributed or it's just the terrible packaging design that made it difficult to dispense the gloss properly. Either way, the glosses looked lumpy when swatched. This was particularly obvious with 851 Strawberry Smoothie. You can easily see how gooey in some parts and weak in others. NOT my cup of tea!


3. I am not a fan of a gloss that smells like food and DiorKisses are exactly that. 541 Tangerine Jet (Limited Edition) smells like an unripened tangerine while 851 Strawberry Smoothie is the smell of sweet strawberry. I am too old for this crap! I consider them as the expensive version of a teenager's first makeup items. (68MYR/20USD)


I rest my case...





Question: Hi, I just bought the eye seal (...snipped) & the make up artist at the store said the eye seal will actually ruin the eyeshadow & he suggested to only dip the brush in a corner...& I wondering if it'll damage the brushes as well? & will the MAC brush cleanser clean the eye seal off the brushes properly? How did u manage to clean ur brush after using it? Cuz I don't wanna risk spoiling brushes that i paid so much for...



Any powder eye shadow used wet will certainly shorten its lifespan. Therefore, it is always a good practice to only use an assigned corner for wet application. And that's exactly what I do with all my powder eye shadows. A very good example is the Make Up For Ever Diamond Shadow 307 Diamond Black, which I mix with Eye Seal as an eyeliner regularly. I have always stick to just one corner for this purpose. You can see it clearly in this following picture.

And that Anna Sui Liner Brush has been used wet over and again. I have always cleaned it with Eucerin Face & Body Wash and it has never incurred shedding nor has the bristles become rough. I guess if you want to use MAC Brush Cleanser, you can do that by all means. Please remember just one thing. Always wash the brush thoroughly immediately after it's been used wet with a sealant. This is particularly true for Eye Seal. If you wait it out, the bristles will be cemented together and become very hard and stiff. Thus, it will be extremely difficult to clean the brush and could cause damage to the bristles.





Question: (Snipped) I wonder if you ever finish any products because you try so much makeup. (... snipped)



I wonder about that myself too! :) And yes, I do finish products. My secret is that I don't keep what I don't use. Therefore, if it's in my collection, it will surely be used! Ha! Anyway, I took a picture of few items that have been used up quite a bit to show you. A picture says a thousand words!

I could have also shown you a few more items such as the jar of H2O+ Face Oasis Hydrating Treatment that's down to less than 5% left. But since it's a skincare product, I decided to leave it out because it's easier to use up a skincare product than a coloured makeup item. (It was a product that I tested for H2O+ and has become a HG material since. As a result, I have purchased a second jar! The first jar was free of course... Darn it for testing products!)


Anyway, even the Make Up For Ever Diamond Shadow 397 Diamond Black (shown above) has been used up a lot more than what it shows in that old picture. It's safe to say that's about nearly half gone! :)


However, I have to be honest that most of my Pigments are still looking rather new even if I use them regularly. Well, I just have too many of those!






Related Posts:

Reviews: Clarins Colour Quench Lip Balm

Review: Make Up For Ever Diamond Shadow

Review: Make Up For Ever EYE SEAL - Waterproof Liquid Converter

Review: Eucerin Sensitive Skin pH5 Washlotion for body and face

Review: H2O+ Face Oasis™ Hydrating Treatment (Oil-Free)



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Review/Swatch/FOTD/Comparison: Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Metal Orchestra, Limited Edition

UPDATE 31/August/2009: The cream eye shadow in this palette has become very hard and difficult to get the colour off the pan. It's a shame as all other colours are very good. This also happened to the cream eye shadow in Gypsy, the other limited edition palette from Kat Von D. I think all the cream eye shadows need to be reformulated or removed.




UPDATE 08/July/2009: Sephora listed this palette again! If you are interested to buy this, please click here. Not sure how long will this palette stay on Sephora site though...

I know this review came too late as this limited edition eye shadow palette has been withdrawn from Sephora site. However, it is still possible to acquire one from certain Sephora stores while stock lasts. I know so because mine came this way!


My trusted makeup buddy in the US did a huge favour for me by calling different Sephora stores after this palette was discontinued and I just had to have it! If I didn't get this palette, I wouldn't have been able to sleep in peace because it's the only Kat Von D True Romance Eye Shadow Palette that I didn't get my hands on and I honestly liked every single palette I'd purchased! Shoot me if you think I was nuts.

Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette -

Metal Orchestra (Limited Edition)

Colour/Texture:

The Palette

There goes without saying that I adore Kat Von D True Romance Eye Shadow Palettes. And there is no exception for this Metal Orchestra. It is simply stunning, stunning, stunning! I don't know why it's not raved much as it should have been. Even if you don't like the colours, look at the quirky names! They'd put a smile on your face too!

Swatches

I noticed that Kat Von D added a cream eye shadow in every limited edition palette. However, all the regular palettes consist of 100% powder eye shadows.

As a blue eye shadow fanatic and smoky eyes lover, I don't know why it took me so long to get this palette???!!! I don't care how many blues I have in my possession, these are must-haves. They may look ordinary in pan but applied extraordinarily. Most of the blues are glittery eye shadows. I find them rather interesting.


Other than the matte Lucifer, the rest of the smoky side are all shimmery with the cream Slayer being the most outstanding, of course. The gradation scheme makes it practical and easy to handle. You can't go wrong with these colours.


NOTE: Metal Orchestra (limited edition) repeats 2 shade found in Beethoven (permanent). They are Lucifer and Razor Gray. Other than that, these are two very different palettes and I must say that I can't favour either. They are both lovely. :)


I have no qualms about the texture either. I have said this over and again that Kat Von D powder eye shadows are on the powdery side but it hasn't been a problem so far. And I actually enjoy its slightly powdery texture as it's excellent for wet application. I do this a lot with Lucifer, which is found in all palettes. Well, it's a basic matte black so why not?


As for the cream shadow, it applies evenly and smooth. And I swear that it has never creased on me, not one bit. I am hoping that Kat Von D releases an all-cream eye shadow palette in the future. I think that will be a fun. :)


I have included 2 different FOTDs in this post. However, please also check out TheAccidentalBeauty's FOTD slide show on YouTube. She wore the blues really well and she has rather dark complexion! (Who said dark girls can't wear blues???!!!) There are more tutorials (<- click) of this palette on YouTube, if you are interested.


And now, please look at my FOTDs with blues and smokey eyes. :)

FOTD - Smoky Eyes





















FOTD - Blues

Packaging/Price:


This is 34USD for 8 colours. Each is 0.05 oz. / 1.4 g. I think it's an excellent deal for what it offers.



As Metal Orchestra is a limited edition palette, its design is different from the regular True Romance Eye Shadow Palettes (such as Ludwig, shown in the picture). And Kat Von D's new limited edition palette Gypspy has yet another design (also shown on the left).


I like how she does a specific motif for each special item but maintains the shape and size of the palette. The individuality entices me to collect them all. And the consistency in packaging design helps with storage and organization.


What more can I ask for?

Metal Orchestra (Design)

My Verdict:


Thumbs up, of course! I can't find a reason not to like this palette. The colour, the texture, the packaging and the price. All in all, Kat Von D has done it again. I am just loving it as much as any of my True Romance. She may be a tattoo artist, but she certainly knows a thing or two in making an eye shadow palette work in a most wicked way! I can't rave enough. Simply a superior product. Kat Von D should have made this permanent.



Ingredients:

Related Posts:

Review/FOTD: Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Beethoven

Review/Swatch/FOTD: Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Gypsy, Limited Edition, Summer 2009



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #118, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Review: Kanebo Kate Eye Makeup Remover

I have been so busy ever since I came back from my 2 week's break. I have only written a post since I returned... I did try to check out the sites on my blog roll whenever possible and I also read all the e-mail in my mailbox but I didn't have enough time to reply them all. *_*


I feel so bad and guilty... But I am finally sitting down to blog now! I admit that blogging has become another addiction of mine other than makeup and cooking and... Argh, I have so many items on my to-do list! For now, let me tackle the review of this product first, just in case I forget about it again. (Thank God for a regular reader's reminder! :P)

Kanebo Kate Eye Makeup Remover

I have done some research online but found no reviews. Maybe it's just not popular or I have searched the wrong places... Therefore, I am just going to share my experience with you.



Put to test:

The moment I opened the bottle, I could smell some petroleum. Upon sniffing, I confirmed the odour... It's not a very strong scent but it was obvious enough and not very pleasant in my opinion. I should have sniffed it at the store before I bought it. But then again, I'd probably just skip this product if I did that...


I believe it says NO FRAGRANCE (in Japanese) on the bottle! What the hell???!!!


So the scent is out. I don't like it. I can tolerate it but it should be removed or disguised.


I then put some liquid on a cotton square and tried it on my full eye makeup. It removed quite a bit off the stubborn Make Up For Ever Mascara Smoky Lash on the first try. I had to soak my lashes (with the cotton square wrapped) for a little while too. I believe I repeated this process for about 3 or 4 times before I found no more traces of the mascara on my lashes. There wasn't much tugging so I'd say this product does a good job in removing tough eye makeup.


However, after about 3 or 4 uses, my eyes started to feel uncomfortable. I still can't understand why it didn't irritate my eyes at first but in a more progressive manner. By the end of the week, my eyes felt stinging and I had to quit using this product altogether! Fortunately, my eyes weren't red nor swollen. It was just the unbearable stinging sensation that prevented me from using it any further. I wish I knew what's causing the problem but I can't read the ingredients in Japanese!



Price: 900JPY/30MYR (100ml)

I think it's a slightly above average drugstore product. Though it does a fine job taking off waterproof eye makeup, it does require some amount of liquid to remove what's put on my eyes. The mere 100ml of liquid doesn't provide a good millage. Mine went down about 1/3 (or 33ml to be precise) after 7 applications (a week). Therefore, a bottle probably lasts for 3 weeks, if used daily.


Some of you will consider it's cheap but since I am so used to using el cheapo organic virgin coconut oil to remove eye makeup, Kanebo Kate's version suddenly gave me the pinch... I guess it's all relative when it comes to dollars and cents... I don't mind footing out for an expensive eye shadow palette without a second thought but this small bottle makes me think twice, or three times...



Packaging:

I was skeptical about the rather large hole when I opened the bottle. However, I was surprised to find that I actuality needed to squeeze the bottle to dispense enough liquid. That meant the bottle was well designed for not wasting too much product! I was, (and still is) iffy about the cap. I kind of prefer a cap that's attached to the bottle... But I totally understand this is a complete runny liquid so it is necessary to have a screw-up cap to prevent leakage. The bottle is made of light weight plastic. And you know that nowadays airlines allow 100ml liquid per bottle for a carry-on luggage. This bottle will be perfect for aviation travelling. :)


I only have one complaint about the packaging. It is its poor labeling!!! Everything on the bottle is written in Japanese! Once again, this is yet another non-English product sold outside its home country without proper translation. I have always find this very annoying. I have a big problem when I can't read the words on a product. I have marked the ingredients on the picture above. It doesn't look like a ton of words to translate. I believe there are employees at Kate who are capable of doing that for us!!!



My Verdict:

Since I stopped using it after a week's trial, I can't really comment much about this product. I'd say it's effective in removing eye makeup, including the heavy duty stuff. As an eye makeup remover, it does its bits well. However, its petroleum odour is far less than desired. And the fact that it stung my eyes, it made me think twice about purchasing another products without proper labeling...


This product gets a thumb down from me despite its ability in removing stubborn eye makeup. There are more factors than simply what it can do to consider a product being good.






Related Posts:

Review/FOTD: Make Up For Ever Mascara Smoky Lash

Review: Coconut Oil - A Multi-Tasking Product



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Pigment Application: MAC Pigment Sunpepper

I have been following mywomenstuff closely as site is currently featuring The Lipstick Economy Project : 30 days 30 lipsticks! Each time I saw parisb posting another red lipstick, I got so jealous that I wanted to scratch the lip swatch picture off the screen! I can't have red on my lips!!! I have tried so many in the past and seriously each every single one of them made me look hideous or just like an angry old cow. What the hell? All I can do is to admire luscious red lips on other people's faces!


So that was my problem with red lipsticks and I just slept on it... Then a reader wrote to me about my Pigments Collection. (Nope, not lipstick related at all!) Her question was:


(...Snipped) I read your MAC Pigment post and was surprised that YOU have so much! I thought you didn't like MAC? Could you do some FOTD with your Pigments? I want to get some samples from eBay but I am not sure how to use them. (...Snipped)




Hey, I am a woman and I change my mind all the time! LOL. I didn't like MAC (and still don't like most of its products.) But it doesn't mean that I wipe out the entire MAC gang! I do like its Pigments as I have a weakness for loose eye shadows.


So I said to myself, maybe I could do a series of using Pigments like the way parisb with her 30 lipsticks? But there was no way I could do it every day or else I'd get bored looking at myself! Therefore, I thought that perhaps I could pick out one colour and incorporate it in a FOTD? With my current tight schedule, once weekly seems to be more reasonable than making it a daily task anyway.


Hence, I haven chosen MAC Pigment Sunpepper for my first trial run of Pigment Application post. I hope it's working out right and helps some of you, Pigments newbies. :)

MAC Pigment Sunpepper - Dry Application

This looks quite gritty when it's dry. However, all is solved when you smooth it out. It takes a little effort but seriously not much. I normally take some powder out to a clean mixing plate then dip an eye shadow brush in. I will tap away any excess before applying it onto my eyelids so there are less accidents of powder falling onto my undereye area. Should there be any mistakes, I'd use a cotton swab to correct them immediately. Do not wait till you finish the whole application process before correcting your mistakes as powder may transfer to another area when you move. This takes a little practice and you'd find it's rather easy after a few trials.

MAC Pigment Sunpepper - Wet Application

(Mixed with Make Up For Ever Eye Seal)


Now you can see its silver undertone!

FOTD

In this FOTD, I applied Sunpepper both dry (mid-session) and wet (on the crease). I didn't use anything else. I thought it's easiest to show its colour shifting ability this way. :)


You can see that Sunpepper looks rather different if applied wet. The silver under tone makes it cool. Therefore, it can be easily matched with another cool colour. It's strange to see how a warm reddish colour working so well with silver. I think it's rather unique!

Please ignore the hair fallen onto my eyelid!
And I looked a lot darker in these pictures. Lighting was bad...

That's it for now. I will try to utilize loose eye shadows/Pigments with different application methods in my future posts. If you have any suggestions, please shout out! Thanks.






Related Posts:

Review: Make Up For Ever EYE SEAL - Waterproof Liquid Converter

Update/Swatch: My MAC Pigments Collection



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Thoughts/Swatch: Christian Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow 129 Pearly Lilac, Cristal Collection Summer 09: 259 Electric Lights/859 Graphic Lights

Click on the picture to view Dior Summer 2009 Makeup Collection on A Touch of Blusher.

While I checked out Diorskin Shimmer Star 004 Pop Diamond, Summer 2009, I also had a peep at other products from Cristal Collection, Summer 2009. And naturally, my first instinct was to check out the Iridescent Eyeshadow Palettes as I had been a fan of those ever since they were launched. I must say that Dior released quite interesting and a wide scope of colours this time. I decided to put them all together so you can compare notes, too.

Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow 129 Pearly Lilac

(Neiman Marcus Exclusive/Asia/Euro???)

I had read about this particular palette on a couple of US bloggers. It was a Neiman Marcus Exclusive item and I didn't think we would have it. Then I spotted it at the Dior counter! The sales assistant told me this was NOT a part of Dior Summer Collection 2009 but it arrived at her counter at the same time. She told me this was just a new addition to the Iridescent Eye Shadow Palette line. (Weird, I thought... But whatever it was, it was NOT that exclusive after all. I reckon that Dior just played with consumers' mind so we would buy more!) As Malaysia gets Dior Euro products, I wonder if my European readers may find this 129 Pearly Lilac in their stores soon (or already have?) Please let me know if you could feed me with this missing puzzle! Thanks.

When I first saw this palette on other blogs, I thought it looked rather similar to Dior 809 Petal Shine. So naturally, when I swatched 129 Pearly Lilac, I had to swatch and compare it with 809 Petal Shine. It turned out that they were not so similar after all. And the deepest purple in the center of 129 Pearly Lilac looked better in real life than how it looked in the pictures I had seen. When swatched the purple on 809 Petal Shine, I could see it had some gray but the one in 129 Pearly Lilac was brighter and a more proper purple.


However, if you look at this picture below, you don't see that much gray in the purple in 809 Petal Shine. This could be just the lighting difference I guess. You really have to swatch both palettes side by side to notice the differences. Speaking of which, please check out the review on The Beauty Look Book. Lina compared both palettes and also had dupes for 129 Pearly Lilac all lined up! She said if you missed this palette, you could still find the colours in other places as they were not that unusual and I totally agree! (By the way, Lina is one of my favourite Makeup Alley members and she finally created her own blog. You have to see all the amazing products she's posted! I just love looking at those beautiful pictures.)


Anyway, here is 809 Petal Shine for comparison.

Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow 809 Petal Shine

I think 809 Petal Shine looked better on me because it had more mauve and warmer. 129 Pearly Lilac was more gradational and cooler. It would suit someone with cool and light skin tone really well. Overall, I think 809 Petal Shine more interesting as there were more colour differences in the 5 colours chosen.

Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow 259 Electric Lights

Cristal Collection, Summer 2009

I think this is a very cheeky blue palette. It's light hearted because it's a summer palette. The colours are bright and cheerful even though they are gradational. It's lovely but then again, I don't think it's a must have item. Many people can't wear light blues and this palette contains quite a few so please take that into consideration. Here is a wonderful detailed review on Autumn Masquerade. You can see a real life picture on that page. The colours may appear darker in pan but they applied rather light on me. Personally, I'd say this palette is more for fun and collection than being practical. Since I own a lot of blue eye shadows, I had to give this a pass. I am nuts about makeup but I can't be that crazy wanting to own every single blue under the sun. :)

Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow 859 Graphic Lights

Limited Edition, Cristal Collection, Summer 2009

I dare to say this was the pinkest pink Iridescent Quint from Dior I had seen. None of the previous Dior Iridescent top this quint even though those had pink in the names but this one didn't! (OK, just what's up with that?!) That #4 colour was so pink and red that I stared at it for a good moment. The first question came to mind was, "Will it stain?" Then the second question was, "Will it cause any reactions since it's so pink and red?" I even wondered how I was going to wear that #4 with all the other pinks and silver from the palette!


My curiosity got the better of me and I had to do something about it. Since I never had guts to try store eye samples on my own eyes, I just mixed them up on my arm to see if I could accept the look. Well, I have to say that this was not for me.


There were way too much pink floating around but short of an anchor shade to tie them down. I would have considered it if one of the lighter pink was replaced by a navy, dark gray, black or even a purple from the other two palettes shown above. But if that was the case, 859 Graphic Lights would have been a dupe of my Clarins Colour Quartet For Eyes 80 So Sublime... I just knew I was a bore when it comes to accepting new colour combinations! I always fell into the same trap. GAH! So please don't take note of my words but go with your instinct instead. For all I know that this palette creates surprisingly fabulous looks for those who dare!


Putting my doubts aside, I do think 859 Graphic Lights works for both warm and cool skin tones but provided you are of lighter complexion. I dare to say it may be hideous on those with dark complexion...


Having talked about all the colours, I must come back to the texture. I found no difference from these palettes comparing to the previous Iridescent. They are sure winners in this domain. You can rest assure that you get top notch quality palettes from all three. Dior Iridescent work well for me because of its wet character which make these eye shadows super long lasting and creaseproof.


In the past, I had concerns of some being overly frosty (even for me!) And some colour combinations being too dull. Dior's been doing a lot of gradational attempts and some were successful but other failed big time. I guess I am becoming more and more picky and my love for these have moved onto another Dior's new creation, 5 Couleurs Designer All-In-One Artistry Palettes. I found those contain more varieties of texture and colours are less pastel and dreamy.


Well, let me say no more as those totally different and shouldn't be compared with the iridescent ones anyway...






Related Posts:

Thoughts/Swatch/Comparison: Christian Dior Diorskin Shimmer Star 004 Pop Diamond, Summer 2009

Review: Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow 809 Petal Shine

Review: Clarins Colour Quartet For Eyes 80 So Sublime

Review/FOTD/Swatch: Dior 5 Couleurs Designer All-In-One Artistry Palette 408 Green Design, Asia Exclusive, Inonic Eyes Collection, 2009



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Thoughts/Swatch/Comparison: Christian Dior Diorskin Shimmer Star 004 Pop Diamond, Cristal Collection, Summer 2009

I am super late in getting into Dior Cristal Collection Summer 2009. I am late partly because local Dior didn't bring this collection earlier (as opposite to the US and other countries), and also partly because I had been quite busy before I came for my 2-week's doing-nothing-break. And since I had been on my holiday, I was pretty much doing nothing but lazing around by the pool and enjoying quality family time. :P


So I totally forgot to check out this collection till a reader wrote to me yesterday. I decided to visit the local mall that carried the Dior counter to see if it was out here. To be honest, I wasn't having high hopes. But there it was, the entire Summer 09 Collection was out and this particular palette was already sold out! Fortunately, the sales assistant said that they would get more palettes next week. I guess if I wanted one, I would have to get it back in Kuala Lumpur as I am going back tomorrow. :)


Therefore, I was at the store just purely for the testing purpose. It's good that she didn't have any palettes left or else I might have bought an item in a haste.

Diorskin Shimmer Star 004 Pop Diamond,

Cristal Collection, Summer 2009

I have to give Sephora some very deserved credits for its accurate colours on most Dior products. Or I guess it's Dior's people who did a great job in taking excellent product pictures, eh? Either way, the picture (shown above) from Sephora is as close as you can see in the real thing. :)



Product Description:

What it is:
A magical shimmering pressed powder from Dior.

What it does:
This Spring Dior introduces Diorskin Shimmer Star, a light-filled pressed powder enriched with Jeweled Microdust™. These five micro-shimmering tones set off sparks of brilliance, highlighting your complexion. The ultra-fine, super-blendable formula virtually fuses with your skin for a sheer, radiant luminosity.

What else you need to know:
Blend Shimmer Star over the forehead, temples, cheekbones, and chin. It's cased in a chic, petite, mirrored compact and available in two jewel-like powder palettes of pink and bronze shade harmonies. - Sephora


Size: 0.35 oz.

Price: $43USD/142MYR


Now let's look even closely at its swatches...

Swatches & Comparison

I have swatched individual shades on the palette and also the mixed colour to show you the differences. I have also compared it with the first Diorskin Shimmer Palette 001 Rose Diamond (which, by the way, happens to be one of my HG blush colours!)


I did about 2 coats for each colour, including the mixed shade. The 2 mixed colours of 001 Rose Diamond and 004 Pop Diamond were about 3 coats each, if not mistaken. The pictures were all taken under indoor natural overcast daylight near the window without any flashlight.


For some reason, when only looking at 004 Pop Diamond mixed together, it didn't appear to be very cool, but when placed next to 001 Rose Diamond, could certainly spot the differences. I saw that 001 Rose Diamond was warmer and slightly more toned down in comparison. 001 Rose Diamond is by no means less pigmented. I don't know why the picture turned out the way it was. *_*


I believe I can easily wear 004 Pop Diamond even though it's cooler and has more pink. However, personally, I prefer how 001 Rose Diamond looks on my skin better. The cool pink in 004 Pop Diamond is just not the best complimenting colour since I am neutral to warm.


The texture is very consistent compared to the previous Diorskin Shimmer Palettes. This 004 Pop Diamond is still very silky smooth and soft to the touch. It's well pigmented but not over the top colourful. It does give that POP look as its cool light pink gives a splash of freshness to the cheeks. And the shimmers are the same subdue as in all other previous palettes. And this soft shimmery effect was the main reason why I fell in love with my 001 Rose Diamond. Therefore, if shimmers are your concern, please don't be afraid to try this! This palette will not make you look like a disco ball.


I'd recommend 004 Pop Diamond to those who are lighter and cooler than me. If you are about my colouring, I'd say go for 001 Rose Diamond instead. They are quite similar in many ways so I won't say it's a good idea to get both unless you are a die hard fan of these palettes and must collect them all!


By the way, I am using this post to answer another reader's question regarding to Diorskin Shimmer Palettes. The 001 Rose Diamond and 002 Amber Diamond are not limited edition and are still on the shelf wherever stock's available. You can still find them on Sephora site too. However, 003 Copper Diamond is a limited edition palette and it is practically sold out everywhere, unfortunately.


If you ask me, I like both 001 Rose Diamond and 003 Copper Diamond equally as much but 002 Amber Diamond is just OK on me in comparison. According to the sales assistant I spoke to, this 004 Pop Diamond shouldn't be a limited edition, but she "was not very sure"...


One last note, I am not sure why the name of the palette's changed to Shimmer Star but all earlier 3 palettes were named as Shimmer Powder. I guess it's no big deal but I'd just mention it here. You know, just in case the names sound confusing. :)






Related Posts:

Review: Christian Dior Diorskin Shimmer Powder 001 Rose Diamond And 002 Amber Diamond, Spring 2008

Review: Christian Dior Diorskin Shimmer Powder 003 Copper Diamond, Fall 2008



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #118, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Question: Maybelline Angelfit Liquid Foundation/Kanebo Kate Liquid Foundation Swatches, QV Lip Balm Application, Pigments Application, Giveaways?

Question: (...Snipped) Have you tried the drugstore - Maybelline's Angelfit Liquid Foundation? I'd love to see your swatches and review of it.


I have to be honest that I'd never paid much attention to Maybelline foundations in the past. But I did check this foundation out just for the question! OK, here are the swatches for the Angelfit Liquid Foundation after trips to 4 different stores! (Well, I couldn't get the lighting right...) Unfortunately, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get a match for myself from the shades available. The closest shade would be WO1 but it was still not a good match. They were either too pink, too yellow or just too dark. There was not a neutral colour. Please have a look this picture below.

Maybelline Angelfit Liquid Foundation (Asia Only)

*Apparently, this Japanese site (above) offers quite different shades...

I find the foundation quite running. It's sheer but buildable to a pasty film. I guess it's a bit like Make Up For Ever Face & Body (which is very buildable from sheer to thick). I can't say more about this foundation as I didn't buy any to try on my face. This is about as much as I know. :)


However, during my trips to these stores, I had couple of chances to try out some Kanebo Kate Foundations as well. As liquid foundation swatches showed better than its powder form, I swatched the liquid shades and I thought I found a decent match! Please have a look at these swatches below.

Kanebo Kate Liquid Foundation

*The website said this foundation has SPF 20 PA++ but I remember it is SPF18 and fleckenschnitte (aka. Kathi on lotuspalace) who wrote a review on Makeup Alley also said hers had SPF18... Hmm, I don't know exactly how much SPF is there so please check it out yourself! *_*


*According to the website, there should be 6 shades. However, I couldn't find OC-A in the stores here. Anyway, I think I am OC-B and about MAC NC 25 and fleckenschnitte (Kathi) said she was OC-A and about MAC NW 15 in her review on Makeup Alley. But she later posted here (on her blog) saying that she was BR-C (while I only found a BE-C...) I am totally confused!!!


Maybe there is something amiss? I am far cry from being a Japanese makeup expert and this lot was as much as I know from swatching and searching on the Net. Kathi will know better as she is the best Japanese/Korean makeup expert I know. A little help here, Kathi, please? :)


*Dear Kathi and Kuri came to my aide! So OC-A has been replaced with BR-C (more yellow, darker than OC-A and should be also as a brighter but lack of coverage.) And OC-G is SPF 15 PA++ and BR-C is SPF 15 PA+ while everything else is supposed to be SPF 20 PA++.

If eventually I do try out this foundation, I'll follow up with a review. I had read some reviews on Makeup Alley and the general feedbacks were positive. If you are interested, please read them here.





Question: Just saw your review on QV Lip Balm, and I bought one immediately! I was wondering how you apply the balm over your lippie? Do you use your fingers or a brush? I tried using my fingers to apply balm over the same lipstick as yours, RS306, and in doing so, I wiped some colour off, so my lipstick was less pigmented after applying the balm. But your photos don't have this problem, so I was thinking that it must be my application method. Do share about your application techniques, thanks!


Gosh, you are following my blog so closely! It makes me super happy to know that I have such a royal reader! Thank you!


OK, my guess is that your lips aren't as dry as mine so lipstick colours don't stay put easily? Seriously, I think you may try to blot your lips with a tissue paper so the colour pigments set in the lips before applying the lip balm. (PS: I tend to use my fingers!) Even with my super drying lips, I still blot my lips like this quite often. Or, you can just wait for the lipstick colour to dry up a little before adding the lip balm. Good luck!





Question: May I ask why you are keeping so many pigments and how do you apply them?


I love loose eye shadows more than anything else! I collect Pigments and use them too. My favourites are Make Up For Ever Star Powder. There are quite a few other brands that I have tried and loved in the past. La Femme Sparkle Eye Dusts are one good example.


MAC Pigments have been on and off loves for me. I liked some in the past but at some point, I decided to rid of them all. Then I changed my mind again along the way and started piling up my jars! (Talk about being fickle-minded!)


I use Pigments mostly as eye shadows. I use them dry with fingers or brushes. I normally take out a little bit of powder into a small mixing plate and use it from there instead of dipping a brush or my fingers into the jar as I am quite accident-prone. I also use Pigments wet quite often with Make Up For Ever Eye Seal. This is when I want a coloured eyeliners or when I need the eye shadows to be super long lasting since Eye Seal seals off any eye makeup and waterproof it!



I also use certain Pigment shades on lips by mixing them with a clear pasty lip balm, eg. QV Lip Balm. As I don’t have that many Pigment shades suitable for lip colours, I normally mix couple of colours together or couple them with existing lipsticks. I have also used some colours (dry application) as blushes or highlighters. I have to apply those Pigments very lightly with a large powder brush or a skunk (stiffing brush) or else they can be easily over-powering because the Pigments I own are very shimmery.









Question: I have been a lurker for few months. I kept looking out for giveaways but you don't seem to be doing any. Will you be giving out your unwanted stuff or makeup from your sponsors (...snipped)?


Well, I had thought about Giveaways as there are so many bloggers doing them! I admit it makes me feel bad as I haven’t done a thing.


After considering long and hard (and also discussed with few bloggers), I decided not to do public giveaways and these are the reasons:


1. I don’t wish to attract followers/readership/royalty simply because of giveaways;

2. Most of my makeup items are used as I like trying out different things;

3. I give makeup gifts in private regularly;

4. I don’t have any sponsors, not that I can remember, at least. (Unless I consider the time I was testing H2O+ products and that particular sponsor, if I may call her that, provided my local readers a discount e-card...)

5. Giveaways requires a clear-mind and a lot of time and I don't possess either so it's most definitely not me. Not yet!


Therefore, once in a blue moon, some of my readers/friends just receive packages from me for no reason.






Related Posts:

Review/Makeup Application/Swatch: Ego QV Lip Balm SPF 20

Update/Swatch: My MAC Pigments Collection

Review: Make Up For Ever Star Powder

Review: La Femme Sparkle Dust

Review: Make Up For Ever EYE SEAL - Waterproof Liquid Converter

Review/Swatch: Make Up For Ever Star Powder Iridescent Fuschia 951, Iridescent Orange 952 & Makeup Application: Using Pigments On Lips

Skincare Brand: H2O Plus (+), Chicago USA



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Review/Swatch/FOTD/Comparison: Skin Food Banana Concealer Stick #2 vs. Make Up For Ever Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream (#4 Flesh)

My quest for a better lasting and coverage concealer continues... This time around, I am trying out a Skin Food product.


Why Skin Food? Isn't the store not too interesting? Well, yes, most the stores I had been to in Kuala Lumpur were not interesting and quite plastic like. But not the one I went in Kota Kinabalu here! There was even a corner of a table and chairs for (mostly men) to sit around while the ladies shopped. LOL. I saw so many of them sitting there playing with their mobile phones. Poor dudes.

A Skin Food Boutique

So I went in in the store. I was surprised how friendly the girls there were. And I was virtually naked (just the face of course.) I showed the girl my brown spots and I said I'd like to try out some concealers. I was pretending that I knew nothing about cosmetics! Well, I didn't know much about Skin Food and that's the truth! :P She showed all of them to me and explained what might suit my needs and in the end I was debating if I should give its Banana Concealer Stick a try. (Well, she was good at selling stuff to me!)

Skin Food Banana Concealer Stick #2

Product Description:


A secret weapon to banish blemishes with high coverage results. Infused with banana extract to provide moisture and nutrients to the skin. Blends virtually with any foundation to help achieve a flawless looking complexion. Available in 2 shades. - Skin Food Singapore



Colour/Texture:


Like most Korean and Japanese makeup brands, this concealer comes with only 2 shades to choose from. #1 was too pale for me and #2 looked like an OK match though it's still a tad yellow. I decided to give #2 a try since I was hunting for a new concealer anyway.


Banana Stick Concealers are the creamiest and thickest among all Skin Food concealer range. And that's precisely the reason why I chose it. I need something with full strength to cover up the brown spots. I wanted it to be durable too so I didn't have to worry about it wearing off in few hours.


However, since this concealer was creamiest, it required more delicate finger work to spread it out evenly or else it would show the edges. (I'd show this to you in another picture below.)


For the time being, this was the trial on an old scar (from a baking accident. Ouch!) I don't scar well so it usually takes quite some time for any scar to heal...


I think the coverage was quite good. Please have a look.

FOTD Trial








8 Hours after wearing this concealer

I took a close-up with macro setting and I also sharpened the picture so you can see all the details. Parts of uneven blemishes started to show but not the brown spots. I was impressed!









Skin Food Banana Concealer Stick #2 vs. Make Up For Ever Full Cover #4

Ah, please allow me to explain this collage. You can see from the two pictures on the top row that Skin Food Banana Concealer Stick #2 had more yellow than Make Up For Ever Full Cover #4 even after the concealers settled into the skin. The lighting in the pictures weren't the same but I am sure you can still spot the differences. And I'd say that Full Cover #4 matches my skin tone better.


OK, now please look at the second row. As Full Cover is in a tube form, I had to squeeze it out and spread it over my spots. But since Skin Food is in a stick form, I just dragged the stick over the spots without smearing the concealer all over the face. I purposely left the Skin Food concealer as how it was so you can see its coverage and texture (thickness) without thinning it out one bit. Therefore, the Full Cover version may look better here (because it's spread out.) However, you could probably spot how Full Cover accentuate pores more than Skin Food once spread? This was part of the reason why I wanted to find a better concealer! Why on earth my trusted old concealer did this to me???!!!


After applying on both concealers, I topped the spots with a powder foundation to set them. You can see that there were some yellow spots where I applied Skin Food Banana Concealer Stick #2. But the side with Make Up For Ever Full Cover #4 looked quite even and smooth even though some minor pores still showed through. The over all result was better on the Full Cover side. However, please take into consideration that I left the Skin Food untouched. I didn't spread it out properly as one should do with any concealer. I wanted to show you its full strength.


I washed my face and reapplied the makeup again. And this time, I applied Banana Stick #2 properly, meaning I spread it out properly so there were no edges between the spots and the clean skin. You can see that it didn't have those yellow marks anymore in the last two pictures! I apologize for the strong flash on the Full Cover #4 side. I assure you that I couldn't see the difference on either cheek with my naked eyes.

Here is the enlarged version of the final result. I have sharpened the picture so you can see more details. There might be slight edges showing after I sharpened the picture but I'd say it's not bad at all.


PS: I so need something to tame my frizzy hair! I forgot to bring my flat iron with me. Grr...

Price/Packaging:


UPDATE: Reader Cacaopack pointed out that the date imprinted is indeed expiration date. Please refer to comments section for details. Thank you!


This is a collage of the packaging. Everything is in Korean so I have no idea what's written other than that #2. The sales assistant thought the numbers on the pen could be the expiration date. It looked like so to me as well but I can't be sure... And you can see it's cheap for the price of 32.90MYR I paid for the decent length of the concealer (5 mg. **I reckon there is a mistake on that site. It says only 1.4 g.).


NOTE: It is a lot more expensive to buy Skin Food products on Skin Food Singapore site. This concealer costs $21.50SGD (or $14.77USD or 51.90MYR). Unfortunately, it's the only site I found written in English. You could try your luck on eBay as I had spotted some Malaysian sellers, if not mistaken.


I like the packaging as it's convenient, economical and hygienic. You twist the pen to release the concealer stick as you go. Not much wastage.

My Verdict:

I am liking this concealer a lot. This is the very first item I bought from Skin Food and I am impressed by its performance.


However, I think Skin Food ought to widen its colour range. There are people with different skin tones, you know! the mere 2 colours might be sufficient for Koreans but definitely not enough if the company is going out of its country to tackle the global market!


Also, please have the decency to print English translation on the packaging as I have no idea of what's put on my skin. There is nothing about its ingredients, not even in Korean! Although it said (on the Skin Food Singapore site) that it's fused with banana extract and so on, I'd like to have a proper grasp of the ingredient composition. No doubt that I don't have breakouts from this product but is that too much to ask for?


I think not!



Related Posts:

Review: Make Up For Ever Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream (#4 Flesh)

Review/Swatch/FOTD/Comparison: Laura Mercier Secrect Camouflage SC-2 vs. Make Up For Ever Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4 Flesh



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Review/Swatch/FOTD: Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Ludwig

I have mentioned in my posts a couple of times that I love Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palettes and I bought all of them. Here is one more palette and it's not limited edition so you have time to think about it, if you like what you see in this post. :)

Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Ludwig



Again, the pathetic Sphora stock photo...







This is the real palette! Gorgeous!

Product Description:

What it is:
A palette of eight eyeshadow colors from tattoo-artist Kat Von D.

What it does:
A smoky eye adds an instant air of mystery—create your own with the True Romance Eyeshadow Palette. Designed by reality television star Kat Von D especially for Sephora, this artistic spectrum of shades brings an edgy-glam creativity to your makeup. The sleek black eyeshadow palette is stenciled with silver roses and arrives packaged in a silk-screened black and silver box that is itself a work of art—and inspired by Kat's favorite tattoo. - Sephora



Colour/Texture:

The Ludwig palette contains the shades:


- Lucifer (matte charcoal black)
- Orbi (golden green shimmer)
- Dimebag (metallic lime green)
- Tequila (metallic cornsilk shimmer)
- Clay (beige with gold glitter)
- Downtown (metallic light copper shimmer)
- Baroque (golden bronze shimmer)
- Leather (deep chocolate brown sheen)


NOTE: As the description of the colours is quite true-to-life, I just adopted it from Sephora.

Lucifer is found in all True Romance Eyeshadow Palettes while Tequila and Leather have been repeated in Beethoven. I can understand why Lucifer has been placed in all True Romance Eyeshadow Palettes as the matte black ties down whatever look you create from the colours chosen in these palettes. It's an universal anchor shade. And it is an awesome alternative when you don't have a brow colour at hand (provided you have very black brows like mine!) And what a name!

FOTD 1 - The Greens









FOTD 2 - The Browns

I forgot to jot down what I used in this FOTD... But I remember I was testing two different concealers! :P

As you can see that these eye shadows are well pigmented. The colours picked for Ludwig are warm and safe comparing to other Kat Von D True Romance. Thus, if you just want to try out her eye shadows, this will be the one to get. Browns are quite universally neutral I guess. However, being as cheeky as her, there is a certain degree of liveliness in her browns. You can see the shimmers and bronze undertone in both Downtown and Baroque. The green smoky side is straight forward enough. This is a set of warm green smoky because the dark olive green Orbi and grassy (yellow) green Dimebag. And you'd be surprised if you mixed the greens and browns together. I find them work rather nicely too.


I have not encountered much colour fading since I started using Kat Von D True Romance and this is no exception. I can say the texture is rather consistent too. The eye shadows are slightly powdery compared to other brands. But since they are slightly powdery, they can be easily used wet with a sealant as eyeliners (and that's also why I think Lucifer exists in all of the palettes!) The grittiest colour will be Clay, which has quite a bit of golden glitters in it. I find the glitters a tad coarse. Maybe not as bad as Urban Decay but I am too spoilt by Make Up For Ever Diamond Shadows so any glitter eye shadows of lesser standard aren't good enough I guess! Other than that, the rest are soft and silky and easy to blend.



Packaging/Price:

As this is a regular item, the design follows Kat Von D's trademark rose pattern.

However, if it's a limited edition, you'd expect a totally different design. That's how one differentiates Kat Von D's regular items from limited editions. Here is an example.

Back of the Palette

This palette contains 8 x 0.05 oz of products and is retailed for $34USD, mostly found in Sephora only as Kat Von D is a Sephora brand.



My Verdict:

This is yet another good score from Kat Von D. This is by far, the safest eye shadow palettes from her collection. Couple of her True Romance can be too daring for some but certainly not this Ludwig. And that's also why I am carrying it on my trip as I don't have to worry about my eyes look too outstanding. :P It's as easy as 1-2-3!


I only wish this palette was more readily available. If you have a Sephora near you, please do check it out! And if you have this palette, I hope you like it as much as I do. :)



Ingredients:

Related Posts:

Review/FOTD: Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Beethoven

Review/Swatch/FOTD: Sephora Kat Von D True Romance Eyeshadow Palette - Gypsy, Limited Edition, Summer 2009

Review: Urban Decay Urban Decay Eyeshadow Midnight Cowboy, Goddess (from Urban Essentials Set)

Review: Make Up For Ever Diamond Shadow



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Sample/Thoughts/FOTD: Shu Uemura Phyto-Black Lift Lifting Anti-Wrinkle Essence/Skin Food Mushroom BB Cream/Coastal Scents Silica Powder

I am posting about same samples I have tried. You can see from this picture below that I brought quite a few stuff on my trip. This was the brain child of the fabulous fellow blogger parisb. They are super lightweight and fun to play with. I don't think I'd try them out otherwise since I prefer things in their original shapes and sizes... Thanks, doll! You are ingenious!


Just a word of caution: I have normal to dry skin and hardly get any breakouts so it’s rather easy for me to try new things. However, if you have sensitive skin, I would strongly advise you not to do this on-the-move unless you are using samples of products you already own or from brands you trust. The last thing you want on your vacation is a ruined face!

Samples

Unfortunately, I find it almost impossible to review skincare products based on samples as they aren’t like coloured makeup which shows almost instant result. Therefore, I’d just shade my thoughts on those products.


Here are the products I have tested (ticked red in the picture above):

Shu Uemura Phyto-Black Lift Lifting Anti-Wrinkle Essence



It might look good on the back on my hand but it took quite some time for the essence to sink in.

Sample - 5 ml/0.16 fl. oz.


Full Size ($95USD) - 30 ml/1 fl. oz.


Product Description: A lightweight anti-aging essence that helps reverse the signs of aging by visibly lifting and reducing fine lines for re-plumped, deeply hydrated, and firm skin. Suitable for all skin types.


Ingredients: sea water , aqua / water , dipropylene glycol , glycerin , squalane , alcohol , pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate , butylene glycol , dimethicone , cyclohexasiloxane , petrolatum , hexyldecanol , glyceryl stearate , behenyl alcohol , hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriol , cyclopentasiloxane , hydrated silica , propylene glycol , glyceryl stearate citrate , sodium dicocoylethylenediamine peg-15 sulfate , dimethiconol , ammonium polyacryloyldimethyl taurate , glycine soja / glycine soja soybean protein , cetyl alcohol , tocopheryl acetate , xanthan gum , diphenyl dimethicone , disodium edta , acrylates copolymer , adenosine , saccharum officinarum / sugar cane extract , saccharomyces/xylinum/ black tea ferment , litchi chinensis / litchi chinensis pericarp extract , methylparaben , butylphenyl methylpropional , hexyl cinnamal , linalool , limonene , citronellol , geraniol , parfum / fragrance

Skin Food Mushroom BB Cream SPF 20 PA+ Shade #2

Full Size ($65SGD) - 50 g


Product Description: Functions as a make-up and skin-care in one. Acts as a foundation that covers blemishes and evens out skin tone. BB Creams are known to increase skin regeneration. Has Whitening, Sun Protection and Anti-Ageing properties!

Coastal Scents Silica Powder Spheres



This powder is very white in real life. The stock photo shows a bit of pink...

Product Description: Our Silica powder is a very smooth, silky, translucent fine white powder used in cosmetics. It is highly absorbent and used for oil control. It improves slip in cosmetic blends and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

What I used in the FOTD:

Face:
Shu Uemura Phyto-Black Lift Lifting Anti-Wrinkle Essence
Cancer Council Australia Sport Sunscreen
Skin Food Mushroom Multi Care BB Cream SPF20 PA+ #2
Skin Food Banana Concealer Stick #2
Coastal Scents Silica Powder Spheres
Stila Mandarin Mist Cheek Duo

Eyes:
Urban Decay Prime Potion
Maybelline Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Black
The Body Shop Sparkle Eye Palette 01 (colour #1 & #5)
Make Up For Ever Mascara Smoky Lash
Kat Von D True Romance Ludwig (only used Lucifer on brows)

Lips: L. A Girl LP2 Falling in Love (colour #3)



Thoughts:

The Horrid Trial Began...

I can't say much about Shu Uemura Phyto-Black Lift Lifting Anti-Wrinkle Essence as the little samples I used only allowed few applications. There wasn't enough product for me to see any result (or the lack of.) It's a super light weight cream in white. It felt weightless and was comfortable under a heavy-duty moisturiser or a thick sunscreen such as Cancer Council Australia Sport Sunscreen I wore in this FOTD. It didn't cause breakouts for me either but then again, I don't break out easily and the amount was too minimal to cause damage/reactions.


Honestly, I personally won't foot out $95USD for any essence unless I see true life before-and-after results. I reserve my doubts in such products. I tried this sample only because the sales assistant at One Utama Boutique (New Wing) was too kind... I wasn't sure how to refuse her for the freebies... In my opinion, skincare products shouldn't cost a bomb and should be as natural and chemical-free as possible... I think I look all right for my age without spending the bucks. Therefore, this sample was merely something to play with. I leave you to decide if it deserves such a high price tag. If you use this product, please share your experiences with me. Thank you!


OK, I finally tried a latest makeup craze, BB Cream or Blemish Balm... I have always thought it was only a Tinted-Moisturiser-In-Disguise even though all the companies make BB Balm claim it has some magical healing power other than covering up flaws...


Again, The 2 little sachets weren't enough to show any magic for me. (Yup, I was given two packs thanks to a nice girl at Skin Food.) However, the amount was enough for me to testify its ability (or the lack of) in covering up blemishes. I thought the coverage was quite good even though I still needed a separate concealer for brown spots... Most of the uneven bumps (whatever) were covered up. :)


There were 2 shades for this BB Balm and #2 (the darker shade I was given) was still slightly too pale for my skin tone even after it settled into my skin (as seen in the collage above.) I could still see a wee bit of difference between the face and the neck. By the way, this had a light soapy scent which I thought was bearable but not desired. *_*


Now, the disaster struck when I applied the Coastal Scents Silica Powder! Again, just like wearing Make Up For Ever High Definition Powder (100% Silica), my face turned gray instantly! I now knew that Silica Powder and I were enemies! But oh, how it made my face so matte! I could see its oil controlling power right there on my face as it just ate away all the traces of shine from the Sunscreen and BB Balm in seconds!


But the worst was yet to come... I honestly couldn't see the horrible white patches on my face but my camera kept picking them up when the flashlight fired! I asked my husband if he could see those patches on me and he said, "What patches?" So why or why were they there in the pictures???!!! I tried dusting the patches off no less than 10 times and I gave up!!! It took so long for the patches to sink into my skin and there was still bits of white shadows left...


This picture was how I looked afterwards. I had no choice but to redo my makeup. I couldn't bear the idea of walking out of the door with white patches like that on my face. The second time around, I just wore that Skin Food BB Balm alone. I was too lazy to go through the entire process again. :(

Not sure if the gray still shows here but you can definitely see the white patches. Yuck!


And my expression says it all...

This Coastal Scents Silica Powder wasn't nearly as finely milled as Make Up For Ever version. I could see and feel the particles in the Coastal Scents but Make Up For Ever just felt like silky smooth cornstarch. I wonder if those white patches were due to it's not being finely milled? Oh well, you pay peanuts, you get monkeys!!!


My consolation prize was that the Skin Food Blemish Balm made my face looked very natural and less blemished looking throughout the day after I removed all the rest off and just reapplied it on alone. I think I might just try a brand that has a better suited colour in the future soon. The Skin Food Mushroom BB #2 was still a tad too light for me and that was the darkest in that line... But I still have one more sachet in my possession. I will give that a try to see if I change my mind about this BB Cream...



Related Posts:

Review: The Cancer Council Australia – Ultra Sunscreen SPF 30+

Review: Maybelline Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner (Black, Brown, Gray)

Review: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Prime Potion - Original (Sheer Nude)

Review: The Body Shop Sparkle Eye Palette 01 & 02, Sparkling Seduction Collection, Christmas 2008

Review/FOTD: Make Up For Ever Mascara Smoky Lash

Review/Comparison: L.A. Girl Luscious Lip Palette vs. Arissa Studios Trendy Lip Palette

Review: Make Up For Ever High Definition Powder



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125

, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Question: Shiseido MAQuillAGE Lasting Liquid SPF25 PA++, Kat Von D Rock n Roll Eye Shadow Duos, Beauty Products in Australia

Question: Could you please swatch some Shiseido MAQuillAGE foundations?




I tried to get some swatches of different MAQuillAGE foundations but the counter's always empty each time I visited. The Makeup line products were all there spread out for me to play at my own will. However, MAQuillAGE stuff were guarded like some precious treasures as none of its products would be displayed unless the sale assistant was in (which was never in my case!)


Anyway, I finally got a chance to swatch this following foundation. You have to buy the case (can) for 40MYR for the first purchase and the refill is 110MYR each. MAQuillAGE has this strange packaging idea of selling cases separately for almost all its products (other lipsticks and lip glosses I guess?)

Shiseido MAQuillAGE Lasting Liquid SPF25 PA++

These were same swatches photographed on different locations at the same time. (Well, about 1 minute apart for each picture! LOL) It's interesting to see how different they looked under different lighting.


The sales assistant suggested me getting OC20 which looked way dark on me when I took the pictures!


MORAL: Don't buy foundation on the first trail. Always swatch possible shades and walk out of the store to see the colours under natural daylight. :)

Question: Can you do a review on the Kat Von D Rock n Roll Eyeshadows Duos. I loved her palettes but I am not sure if the duos are going to be the same.




I am also a big fan of her eye shadow palettes. In fact, I have all her eye shadow palettes! However, as this brand is not available in Malaysia, I acquired those palettes through a dear friend in the US. Therefore, I don't think I'd purchase its duo eye shadows in the near future. It is far more economical to get palettes (more colours) instead. :P


I welcome those who have first hand experiences of Kat Von D Rock n Roll Eyeshadow Duos to step forward to share your experiences. Thank you!


In the mean time, here is a YouTube clip by SephoraEditor. Please have a look if you are interested to know more about Kat Von D. :)

Kat Von D Makeup Line for SEPHORA

Question: I Have to comment on your comment regarding Australia as a product desert....????? just what part of Australia are you going too? Do you know anything about this country? I think you may be surprised that it is not a third world country!! you will be able to buy things to paste on your face...I assure you! Oh dear Miss Kuala Lumper.. you may also be surprised to find that Australia has no where near the air pollution Malaysia has ....enjoy!! :)



Well, I stand by what I said, there are less choices of beauty products to choose from and the products are overly priced in Australia. I lived in Melbourne for a good 5 years and I stayed in the part of the city that's rather fashionable and trendy, Torrack Rd./Chapel St. (South Yarra Chanel 10 area, to be exact.) and I said so simply based on my own experiences.


I am Taiwanese by birth but now a Malaysian Permanent Resident (PR) by marriage. And I have been a global trotter since age 18 or so. From my experience, I'd say that Tokyo, Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago (and a few other big cities in the USA) and maybe Dubai are considered makeup heaven for various reasons (more choices, lower prices and other factors.) I won't even regard Paris, Rome or London being great places to shop for makeup largely because of the prices. And Paris is sometimes surprisingly slow on new products for some unexplained reason.


Apparently, Malaysia isn't such a makeup heaven for me either. There are too many brands that we don't have or just being slow in general. Since I moved here, many brands have withdrawn themselves out of the country due to poor business, the most recent fatality being Stila.


I am aware that air (water, and many other) living qualities are far better in Australia and I'd like to live there for good, if given a chance. However, since Australian government doesn't welcome medical professionals (including the ones trained in Australian universities such as my husband,) we don't have the opportunity to migrate to the country. Therefore, I really treasure my husband's upcoming one year working experience in Sydney and will enjoy my stay there as much as I can. Maybe not so much for affordable beauty products but certainly the environment, food and travel!



Related Post:

Review/Skincare Brand: Simple Regeneration Age Resisting Facial Wash



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #118, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Review/Skincare Brand: Simple Regeneration Age Resisting Facial Wash

I will start reviewing a few drugstore facial washes that I tried in the past few months. I started trying out new products not because of my skin care routine's not working but because I wanted to learn more about cheap and effective products. I'll be relocating to Australia for a year in 2010 and Australia is basically a beauty products desert (few brands to choose from and bloody expensive), I thought it's best for me to learn more about products that work for me before I move. I don't want to waste time and money doing so when I reach there.


Anyway, I bought this tube back in January and I totally forgot to review it! Therefore, before I forget doing it again, I am jotting down my thoughts about this product.

Simple Regeneration Age Resisting Facial Wash

Product Description:

Regeneration Age Resisting Face Wash is a special blend of ingredients to remove all impurities and leave your complexion visibly clearer. Perfect for even sensitive skin

Green Tea Extract fights premature ageing
Mushroom Extract refines and regenerates the skin
Oat-Beta Glucan, Allantoin and Chamomile gently soothe and reduce sensitivity
Vitamin E softens, smoothes and improves skin condition - Simple.co.uk



Put to test:

Initially, I wanted to try the regular Simple facial wash as I remember it's available in Melbourne while I stayed there back in late 90's. However, I was talked into trying this new product by the promoter. She said since I am nearly 40, this product would suit my aging skin better in comparison. (I am beginning to acknowledge my age especially when sales assistants trying to sell me anti-aging products as fine lines and eye bags are starting to show... Grr...)


OK, this is the half used tube. :P

She got me and I bought this tube then gave it a try immediately. I admit that I did like it at the beginning because it even removed makeup without leaving a trace. (I still had to use a separate eye makeup remover as Simple facial wash stunt my eyes if I were not careful enough. Therefore, I wouldn't dare to use it to remove eye makeup. Besides, it was indicated on the back of the tube to avoid areas near the eyes.) I was hoping Simple could be an alternative for my Eucerin Face & Body Wash which requires a separate face makeup remover.


Then after 3 days or so, I started to feel the pinch...


It started giving my face a tightening feel. I felt my face's been pulled from all sides and I kept checking if there was any sign of fine lines' pulled away and less showy. I thought perhaps this tightening effect was due to the product helped erasing signs of aging! Ha! I must have been daydreaming! Nothing like that happened. In stead, I felt my skin drier than normal each after I washed my face. Too squeaky clean for my liking (huh?) and too dry for my already dry and aging skin.


This collage illustrates how I tested it... I found it's almost impossible to make a thin lather if rubbing the wash liquid between my palms. I had to wet my hands to do so and it created a lot of bubbles.


I was not sure if this product was meant for dry skin as there was no indication on any part of the product nor on its site. However, the girl assured me that this was made for all skin types, even the very sensitive skin. (Well, at least it was printed on the tube and Simple site that this was suitable for sensitive skin!)


OK, since that's settled, now let me tell you how I felt about the wash.

PS: This is just a thick liquid not gel like. I don't know what I was thinking!

I used it for a week or so and I stopped. This was definitely not a product for my skin type. Whatever the girl told me was a false claim. I didn't feel the Vitamin E working one bit. I guess there may be too little to have any effect. I am a big fan of Vitamin E products and I know when it works. This facial wash? NO!

It didn't cause any breakout nor skin peeling off so that's probably a plus. However, I only tested it for a week and my skin became drier already. Therefore, I honestly wasn't sure if my skin would have peeled off if I continued using it? I dared not to take that chance. I absolutely hate reactions from trying out new skincare products. I can only say that during the brief trial period, nothing happened to my skin expect becoming drier. Maybe this product was a good news for the very oily skin? But if you have normal to dry skin like me, don't bother with it. It will dry out your skin.




Price/Packaging:

A typical large squeezable tube with a flip-up cap at the bottom. Nothing outstanding but simply practical. The cap keeps the content intact without any leakage even put standing upright. That gets a thumb up from me. There is 150ml of product in the tube and it is cheap - 23MYR plus some changes, if my memory's correct.



My Verdict:

This product is a no-go for me. I couldn't wait for it to act its magic to regenerate my aging skin simply because it's too drying. It did clean up my face like no others and I didn't need a separate face makeup remover. A true on-the-go, 2-in-1 product for those who don't feel it's drying. It is rather foamy and not advised to be used on the eyes. Although it says it's suitable for sensitive skin, I'd suggest those who are prone to allergies and reactions to try out other older and basic Simple products instead. In case you don't know, Simple is famous for its fragrance & colour- free products for people with problematic skin. Since this particular facial wash is a newer creation, I'd suggest not to risk your precious skin by trying it out till we read more about it. I know I was courageous but you don't have to!


By the way, I asked my husband to use this as a body wash so it can be used up. :P



Ingredients:

Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Fomes Officinalis Extract, Sodium Chloride, Propylene Glycol, PEG-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Panthenol, Glycol Distearate, Methylparaben, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Camellia Sinensis Extract, Polyquaternium-39, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cocamide MEA, Laureth-10, Disodium EDTA, Dipropylene Glycol, Citric Acid, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Glycerin, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Chlorphenesin, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid, Propylparaben



Related Post:

Review: Eucerin Sensitive Skin pH5 Washlotion for body and face



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #118, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.

Update/Swatch: My MAC Pigments Collection

I am on a 2 weeks' vacation now. I had been too busy to do much for the past months and I needed a break before going back to face the renovation that's yet to finish... Sigh...


Anyway, I will have access to Internet but not to my stash, apparently. However, I've brought samples (and also few full sized products) to try and use. And of course I am planning to shop, if something catches my attention. :)


As for now, here is my most recently updated MAC Pigments Collection. I lied when I said I should swap some away and I lied when I said I should just stick to Make Up For Ever Star Powder. I am liking a lot of MAC Pigments now! So shoot me!

MAC Pigments - Full Size










Just the new additions...









Tan

This is just as the name suggested, a very warm dark beige with red undertone. It is a bridging colour for me. Meaning: too pigmented as highlighter but not deep enough in the crease/liner. Nevertheless, I still adore this colour. :)









Azreal Blue

A light shimmery light blue that's the cross breed of sky blue and turquoise. It serves as a bridging colour for me as well.







Provence

This is very close to my skin tone so I like it as a highlighter for many things. And it's only lightly shimmered so I find it versatile.









Golder's Green

This is a fresh, lively golden green. It works well with golds and brown for me.









Sunpepper

This is a stunning reddish copper and brown mixed in one. However, it looks cooler than warm so I have the feeling there is purple too? Not sure... I don't even think I describe it properly but this swatch is rather accurate. It's most gritty in comparison so it requires a little bit more work. Otherwise, it's rather unique. A good combination for this is actually a gray or a silver! Weird huh? Well, if you use it wet, you'd see it turns slivery gray!!! :)









Apricot Pink

This is a cool pale pink. The name Apricot Pink doesn't describe it properly. Not at all Apricot in my opinion... Not only on the eyelids but it's also good on the cheeks, provided you use it lightly. And it is especially beautiful as a gloss on lips.









Teal- sample size

This is a warm green blue. More green than blue. The colour looks a lot darker in the container but when swatched, it is an amazing bright colour. It will be great as a striking liner too.









Dark Soul -sample size

This is a matte black with silver shimmers. I think the name suits it well. A cool smoky eye look must-have.









Steel Blue - sample size

This is an interesting mix of blue and steel (gray???) I have not tried a pigment this colour in the past. It is sheerer than how it appears in the container. A good colour for smoky eyes if you use a dark gray or black. It is also good as a liner alone.









Violet - sample size

I have been told this is one of the must-haves for browns eyes. I think I know why! It is a vivid purple with only slight hint of blue. An eye-catching colour. And purple is my favourite shade for eyes!









Pink Opal - sample size

This colour looks yellowish but swatched pinkish. I'd use it as a highlighter with a pink or a cool mauve or even a silver gray.









Naked - sample size

Despite of its boring look, this is quite an useful colour. It can be a highlighter on lids and cheeks both as it's almost invisible but adds a little bit of shimmers. When used more, it looks a little warm and almost peachy.







Goldern Olive - sample size

This colour looks a lot darker than Golder's Green but when swatched I find them are not too different. This has a tad of brown (khaki) while Golder's Green has hint of gold (yellow). Therefore, this is more muted in comparison.









Shimmer Time - sample size

This looks rather peachy in the jar but once swatched, it's a warm whitish peach. Other than on the eyelids as a highlighter, I think it's also suitable for dusting over a dull matte finish blush colour to bring up a glowy effect.









And these are the older stuff...

Related Post:

Review: Make Up For Ever Star Powder

My MAC Pigments Collection - Bell-Bottom Blue, Coco, Deep Purple, Lovely Lily, Mauvement, Pink Pearl, Reflects Transparent Teal, Rose Gold, Subtle



My Colouring:

MUFE Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream #4, Lift Concealer #3, Duo Mat Powder Foundation #202, Face & Body #20, High Definition Foundation #125, Liquid Lift Foundation #2, Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation #1.5, Pupa Professionals Triple Action Powder Foundation #02 (when tanned)

Light Asian skin (obvious brown spots on cheekbones, slightly dry & doesn't break out easily), dark brown eyes, jet black hair, medium pigmented lips.

If you are not reading this on mymakeupreviews.blogspot.com or in a feed reader, this site has stolen my content.