Chanel Le Blanc Light Mastering Whitening Fluid Foundation SPF 25/PA+++

Early this year, Chanel released their  Le Blanc Light Mastering Whitening Fluid Foundation SPF 25/PA+++ which is exclusively sold in Asia.  I suppose it's because whitening products are a hit in Asia?

When I was shopping for foundation, I kept swatching until I found a shade that matched my skin.  In this line, I'm a BO20 Beige Ocre Tendre which is the second lightest.  The only question I asked the sales associate at the Chanel store in Harbour City was if this product would make my skin breakout.  She said no and I bought it.  I didn't even bother reading the name of the product - as long as it matched my skin and didn't give me zits, I was happy.

I wasn't happy when I read the label once I returned to our hotel.  Truth be told, I don't like how they named this product because it sounds like a high-end BB Cream.  This is far from that, and in a good way.

The foundation comes in a pump dispenser which I like as it gives me the right amount of product all the time.  Its a tiny amount compared to other products which come in this type of packaging but that little is enough to provide good coverage.

In terms of texture, it felt a tad bit powdery at the beginning of application.  Perhaps the Mineral Ceramic Pigments contained in this formula is the cause?  I'm taking a guess here.  Anyway, as I worked the product into my skin, it felt smoother.  It's medium-weight so its easy to blend and after application, it doesn't really feel like there's foundation on.  It has a light fragrance that I personally found pleasant.  The scent gets weak the longer you wear it so for those who prefer unscented products, its not that bothersome.

Chanel claims that this foundation will make the skin appear even and translucent... and it's true.  It makes my skin look luminous, slightly ethereal.  In fact, I can completely skip using a highlighter.  The finish is semi-matte so even if my skin glows, it doesn't look oily.  I like how it photographs because the highlights look natural so I suppose this is make-up artist friendly.

As for the whitening properties?  I can't tell because I never cared for that kind of stuff.  I suppose if you use this along with the skincare products from the Le Blanc line then there may be a chance that your skin will lighten.

Overall, I like how this foundation performs.  It's really great for those with oily or combination skin because it provides good coverage, doesn't make the skin look greasy and no breakouts! For those with dry skin, you may want to try another foundation from Chanel because dry skin looks flaky on this.

I've never tried anything like it in the past.  If it's within budget, I say go for it because a good base is important when wearing makeup.

I'd like to know what foundation you've tried that makes your skin glow. Share please :)

That's it.

My parcel finally arrived last week along with some of my mom's things.

I've been excited to try That's it. Fruit Bars because with approximately 5 months to go before the big day, I need to start living a healthier lifestyle.  Aside from convincing myself to use my gym membership, I need to start eating healthy.  A regular diet won't work because I'm always hungry.  Every 2 or 3 hours, I have to eat... half the time, I look for something sweet.

That's it. bars are a great addition to one's healthy snack line up.  It's made up of just two ingredients: fruit and fruit.  It contains 2 servings of fruit which is the recommended daily consumption.  It's high in fiber, has only 100 calories, no preservatives, no added sugars, no fat, no nuts, gluten-free, diabetic friendly (low glycemic index), vegan and kosher.  How much more healthy does it get?

I like granola and museli bars but my taste buds need something different.  You know what I mean? That's it. comes in three varieties:  Apple and Pear, Apple and Cherry, and Apple and Apricot.  All of these have a strong condensed apple flavor (like when you eat an apple pie).  It sort of reminds me of raisins too (which I eat like candy).  The other fruit adds a nice twist.  With the Apple and Pear bar, I could feel the pear's texture.  The Apple and Cherry is delicately flavored.  My favorite is the Apple and Apricot bar which has a good balance of both flavors.

After eating with a bar along with a glass of water, my stomach did not feel full but at the same time, the hunger pangs were gone.

Ever since I received my box of bars, I've been bringing one with me in my bag in case I get hungry.  When I run out, I need to find a local seller that carries these.  Or I could always order from Amazon and have it sent it here.  Either way, I'm definitely going to need another batch of these treats soon.

Please check out the Facebook Page of That's it. for more information.

A press sample was provided for editorial consideration.

Tommy Loafer Heel

Back in the 80's, my sister was in love with penny loafers.  She had a pair and made sure my mother got me a pair for school as well.  She would even put real pennies in it - that elevated her to cool status in my eyes.

Tommy Hilfiger's Fall 2011 Collection includes this high heeled penny loafer that made my heart skip a beat the moment I saw it.  I now need to figure out how to purchase this online.

Balms Away Eye Makeup Breakup

I've been using this eye makeup remover from theBalm on and off since December and have used up half the tin so it's pretty safe to write a review now.

The directions at the back say that a dollop of Balms Away is needed to get rid of eye makeup.  Isn't that a lot?  Anyway, since I don't like dipping my fingers, I use a spatula to scoop the product out.  Next step is to massage it on the eye area for about 30 seconds.  Once that's done, tissue off.

When it comes to breaking down makeup, yes this is pretty effective.  It can remove even the toughest mascara.  After massaging it in, I just see a muddy mess that's ready to be wiped off.  However, there are times that my eyes get blurry because of the oil in the product.  People who wear contact lenses need to remove them before using this.

Most of the makeup removers out there are either in cream, milk or liquid form.  This one feels like petroleum jelly.  It's thick and feels greasy.  Sure, it removes makeup quite well but removing the makeup remover is another story.

It's so thick that it's impossible not to tug or rub your eyes in the process of tissuing it off.  That's the only way one can get everything out.

According to the brand, it contains Vitamins A, C and E and plant-derived lipids.  The thing is, with the rubbing and tugging needed to remove the product from the skin, I don't think it'll make any difference in preventing wrinkles, lines or whatever.

So even if it works, I'll skip this product thank you very much.  There are others out there that remove makeup just as well with less skin damage potential.

Clarity Aesthetic Medical & Dental Center

I'm writing this post on a Friday because personally, I like get my treatments towards the end of the week (on a Thursday or Friday) as it helps me de-stress and prepare for the weekend.  Good idea, yes? :)

When it comes to skincare treatments, I tend to stay away from spas.  After all, it is my skin and I'm the type who would rather invest in a product or service instead of getting something that costs less but doesn't work or worse, will aggravate my skin issues.  Its best to either see a medical professional or have it done by a reputable skincare brand.  At least that's what I do.

Here's the thing:  I hate having to go to a dermatologist's clinic at the hospital and wait in line.  Actually, I just hate going to hospitals period.

That's why Clarity is a winner in my eyes.  It's basically your one-stop-shop when it comes to skincare, beauty and dental services.  They employ medical professionals to ensure that the treatments you receive are exactly what you are looking for, what you need and safe.  Since it's located inside Shangri-La Mall, I can kill time either by shopping or eating.

Last week, I visited the center not really knowing which specific treatment to get.  Thankfully, I was able to consult with Dr. Amy Cagayan.  I told her what my skin concerns were - I have sensitive skin and I just wanted some areas to look smoother.  She then told me about the different treatments they had and made recommendations based on what I told her and what she saw.

To address my sensitive skin, I had the Firming Facial wherein my skin was cleansed, exfoliated and a mask was applied.  My therapist, Divine, massaged my face.  She applied this thick cream which based on the scent, was infused with lavender.  It was so relaxing I wanted to fall asleep.  The facial was followed by a Diamond Peel treatment but only on the forehead where my skin looked most uneven. 

When everything was done, I checked my face and noticed that my skin looked smoother.  The days following my visit, my cheeks felt less dry than usual and at the same time, nothing triggered a break-out.

There's another treatment that's making me more and more curious everyday.  They do IPL treatments to reduce the appearance of broken capillaries.  I have lots of those on my cheeks thanks to genetics.  To be honest, I'm afraid of laser treatments or anything similar which is why I haven't done this yet.

Aside from skincare, Clarity also offers cosmetic and dental services.  Here's a scanned copy of their list of services (click to enlarge):

Clarity is located at the 5th Level of Shangri-La Plaza Mall.  Clinic hours are from 10am to 8pm daily.  You can contact them at 910-4955 to 64.

A press visit was provided for editorial consideration.

Supercalifragilipstick by Kate Spade

Designer Kate Spade has teamed up with Poppy King (aka The Lipstick Queen) in creating the Supercalifragilipstick Collection.  The colors are supposedly sheer much like lip gloss but have the texture of a lipstick.

Bashful Blush, Pop Art Pink, Adventurous Red and Fuchsia Fete are the four colors featured in this collection.

Supercalifragilipsticks is set to be released in the US this September.  I wonder if they'll carry this locally and when.

Are you looking forward to this collection?

The One About The Dumbass Neighbor

The title alone will tell you this is a rant post.  I came home from date night last Saturday to find that part of the basement parking of my place of residence was burnt.  The lobby still reeks of it.

Here's what happened:  one of the guys who lives here entered the parking area with the front of his car wrecked.  There was smoke coming out.  While he was in the process of getting his car into the slot, sparks flew and the car burst in flames.  Three other nearby cars were damaged too, one severely.  Wires burnt down.  Lots and lots of it.  According to the security guard, the guy seemed drunk.

You know what the best part is?  The entire building hasn't had power since.  No electricity, no hot water, no internet, no telephone.  Half the residents have left.  An old woman was brought to the hospital.  I feel like this is a scene from a zombie movie.  There are some units here that are offices.  Not only were our lives disrupted but for some, their means to make a living.  Some say it could take three weeks to get everything back to normal.  Others who are optimistic say a week.  What the effing hell...

The guy in the car?  Got out unharmed.  I heard on the grapevine that the guy is trying to pass the blame elsewhere.  Instead of making a public apology and finding a way to ease the burden on EVERYONE who lives here, he bails out.  He was even heard name dropping and bullying people.  His family brought in SOCO, DILG and SWAT - what for?  The basement was not a murder scene!  The only death was the death of all common sense... When there's smoke coming out of the hood of your car, don't freaking drive into a basement!  No amount of that crap will get him out of the mess he's created.

The car on the right was the one that started the fire

 At another angle

 The bump in front which caused something under the hood to go nuts

 The car on the left was just parked there and look at the terrible shape its in

Two other car victims

Needless to say, I am angry beyond words - the voodoo doll and black candles are out of their hiding place.

I am glad that my parents and Preppyboy's mom have offered me a place to stay.  Others aren't as lucky and don't know where to go.

Tie Dyed Locks

I started growing my hair in 2009 because I knew I would get married within two years and it's easier to style long hair.  Back then, I wasn't even engaged.  It's just one of those things I knew would happen.

The original plan was to cut my hair really, really short after the wedding.  But when beauty websites started posting photos of Lauren Conrad's tie dyed locks I went absolutely nuts (in a good way).  So now I'm seriously contemplating on getting tie dyed hair before I go back to having short hair.

I don't really care if its no longer the trend by then... this is just something I would definitely want to try.

What do you think?  Let me know by voting on the poll below.  And if you have any salon recommendations, please leave a comment.  I'd really appreciate it.  Happy weekend!

NYX Nude on Nude Palette

The Nude on Nude palette from NYX features 20 eyeshadow and 10 lip colors that can transform your look from day to night to discomama.

I'm wary about neutral palettes that are dominated by shimmery colors because there are times that I want to create a subtle eye look.  What I like about this palette is that there eight matte colors I can work with.  These are on the chalky side and the color is weak so I need a primer to make this work.  There are three colors that have glitter on them but either the glitter is too big or the formula doesn't make them stick so what happens is I just get the base color.  Personally, I don't mind since it looked a bit strange with the glitter.  The rest are shimmery shades that are buttery, pigmented and blend really well.  I was actually expecting the eyeshadows (the matte & shimmery ones) to perform that way, so no surprises here.

I used Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion for these swatches.  Truth be told, the colors look better in person.  I guess this means I need a better camera.  Haha!

I was expecting the lip colors to be too sheer to use but I was happy to be proven wrong.  The colors came out more pigmented than I thought.  I like that there are both warm and cool colors in both light and bright shades.

The lipsticks feel a bit thicker and slightly stickier compared to the Round Lipstick from the same brand.  It does have a tendency to dry so a lip balm is needed before applying.  As long as you prep well, this will feel comfortable.  The color doesn't stay on quite as long as regular lipsticks.  But hey, I've seen worse.  When it comes to lip colors in palettes, this is actually one of the better ones out there.

The palette also includes a sponge tip applicator and lip brush which I feel they could have done without given the flimsy quality.  NYX should have just made the lip color pans bigger ;)

I think this palette is perfect for those who aren't really into makeup, beginners or for those on a budget.  Think about it:  The darkest colors can be used as an eyeliner and the lip colors double as cream blush.  The only thing you'll need to get is a tube of mascara and some face powder.

Overall, I think NYX did a great job with this palette.  It's one product that truly gives you a bang for your buck.

The Body Shop Earth Lovers Shower Gel

 

When The Body Shop released their biodegradable hair care line,  I wondered when they would do the same for shower gels.  Months later, my wish was granted with the launch of their Earth Lovers Shower Gel.

The company claims that the 100% Biodegradable formula is soap-free, contains no parabens, sulphates or colorants.  Now I won't pretend to know what the heck all these do or how they affect the skin because I am not a medical professional.  However, I'll take something that has less artificial stuff in it.

Unlike the biodegradable shampoo line, I find this product has a thicker lather and performs just like any other shower gel I've tried.  In fact, I don't feel any difference.  What I really love is that it has a fresh herbal scent.  I'm seriously tired of the strong floral or fruity scents that most shower gels have so this is a refreshing change.

Earth Lovers Shower Gel comes in seven variants:  Pear and Lemongrass, Lemon and Thyme, Watermelon and Eucalyptus, Cucumber and Mint, Fig and Rosemary, Apricot and Basil, and a Fragrance-free one.  My personal picks are the first three mentioned.

Tip: the packaging is biodegradable too.  They come in clear apple-green bottles that you can recycle for other household items like dishwashing liquid, etc.

Out & About Vol.2

We couldn't stop laughing when we saw this at the buffet table...

At Edsa Shangri-La

MAC Surf Baby My Paradise Cheek Powder

 

I have a confession to make.  Before even swatching, I already made sure that I was going to get My Paradise because of the pretty design.  And right after I applied it, I was hooked.

When it comes to blush, I prefer it not be too pigmented because I want to have the option to adjust and build color based on my preference.  This product does just that.  The gold overspray blends nicely with the coral base color, giving it just the right amount of shine.  Some products with glitter are just over the top - this is subtle.  Check out the swatch below to see what I mean.

Aside from it being buildable, I like that it feels smooth on the skin.  It's also quite easy to blend.  Definitely one of the easiest blushes to use.

It wouldn't make sense to swatch this the way one would with an eyeshadow because that's not how blush is applied.  So I used a face brush instead so you can see what this really looks like as a blush.

On me, I think this provides a much more natural flushed look compared to pink blush.

There are very few products that I buy on repeat.  I wish this wasn't a limited edition color because this is something I've been using quite often.  Had I known that I would love this so much, I would have gotten a second one.

I dare say I like this way better than NARS Orgasm.

MAC Surf Baby Bust Out! Lipstick

I have plum lipsticks but never a true purple one.  I had to have one at some point so I figured it was time :)

MAC's Bust Out! is a Lustre lipstick that a collector or anyone who likes unconventional colors will enjoy.  It appears uneven when applied from the tube but it's not as obvious as Naturally Eccentric.  Still, I recommend paying close attention when applying.

I think this is wearable as an everyday color if you keep your eye area bare or use really light colors.  Or if you're into Avant Garde and want to go wild, pair this with an orange eyeshadow.  Either way, this lipstick is just fun!

After using all three lipsticks from Surf Baby, here's what I think:  The colors are lovely but I think MAC should continue to work on the formula so that it lasts longer.  Hey, I have no regrets purchasing these... I just think it could still be better.

MAC Surf Baby Naturally Eccentric Lipstick

Love wearing outrageous eyeshadow colors like red and hot pink?  Perhaps you'd rather don the darkest smokey eye?  Or maybe you're the type who wants to go all zen on the face and minimize color?  Naturally Eccentric is a creamy nude Lustre that is perfect for an Avant Garde look.

What I have noticed with the Lusture formula is that if applied directly from the tube with the same amount as a normal lipstick, it will appear uneven.  I own three MAC Lustre Lipsticks and they all do the same thing.  However, when applied in a thin layer using a brush or if you dab it with your finger, you will end up with a lovely, even wash of color

If one plans to wear this shade solo, it is important to exfoliate the lips real well as this brings out flaky lips.  Embarrassing!

One way to enhance this color is by applying an opalescent gloss on top.  Can you imagine how magical that would look?

Naturally Eccentric can also be used to tone down bold lip colors and give it a bit of a milky hue.

The color may seem intimidating at first but think of all the possible ways you can incorporate this with your current collection.  This was the first lipstick I got from the Surf Baby collection because I thought it could be used in so many different ways!

MAC Surf Baby Hibiscus Lipstick

I thought that I'd devote most (if not all) of this week to the MAC Surf Baby I nabbed because this is my favorite collection to date.

Hibiscus was one of the most popular products in MAC's Surf Baby Collection.  It sold out justlikethat.  I actually had the chance to purchase this as soon as it was out but hesitated.  That's one thing I will never do again.  Ever.  When I realized I wanted it, I had to go to 3 stores before I found one.  Anyway, I hope you enjoy this Swatch & Tell!

I've stayed away from MAC lipsticks for quite some time because I found it too drying.  I guess it's their matte stuff that I should stay away from.  

Hibiscus is a vibrant coral red that's perfect to wear on a sunny day.  It's a wee bit more red in real life compared to the photos below.  It's a Creamsheen lipstick which did not dry out for the entire time I wore it.  I was hoping it would last longer but I noticed that the color faded within three hours and had to reapply. 

 I'm just glad I was able to get my hands on this because I was so close to biting the bullet in eBay :p

Laura Mercier Violet Lip Glacé

When it comes to lip products, Laura Mercier tops my list because my lips always feel moisturized, the products go on smooth and the colors jive with my skintone.

Today, it's about their Lip Glacé in Violet.

The name of this color is a bit deceiving.  Yes, there's a hint of violet but it is very subtle.  As you can see, it looks dark on the tube compared to the light rosy hue once applied.  It has just the right amount of sparkle and shine which goes well with the color - it makes the lips look brighter and, in my opinion, feminine.

The formula itself is just right.  What that means for me is that it's not runny nor is it too thick.  It's a happy middle which allows the gloss to stay put for a decent amount of time without feeling heavy or icky.  It did not bleed outside the lip line and my lipstick stayed put.

Personally, I love that the lip gloss comes has a vanilla flavor.  I hate glosses with strong flavor - this is one of the few I can stand.

If you want a natural look, this is a great color to wear.  You can use it alone or on top of a nude or light pink lipstick.  I find that it stays on longer with the latter.

There are 4 more colors for me to share, so keep an eye out for it.