OTHER LOCATIONS: Available via Sooperbeaute retailers
THE VERDICT:
When it comes to good primer and foundation, first things that come to my mind are high end and some drugstore brands; not a lot of online beauty brands come to mind because I haven't tried enough and those I've tried did not impress me enough. To be honest, I wasn't expecting a lot from Sooper Beaute Express Beauty Blur Cream Primer Foundation and Candy Porefecting Cream Foundation.
But look where we are now--I've been using the duo frequently ever since I got them! This duo is going to be your super affordable go- to summer base makeup!
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available through Colourette pop-up stores; Colourette official website
THE VERDICT:
Versatile color creams are becoming a thing nowadays; I've seen a couple of brands coming out with their version; some in tin while some in stick form. Colourette relaunches Lipsnaps into Coloursnap Dewy Multistain, your go-to tin for dewy, summer- worthy pop of color.
One of the reasons why I anticipate summer is because of all the exciting, limited edition beauty products that come out, like the new limited edition Creamsilk Fresh Hydration conditioner.
Wow, I've almost forgotten to blog about this! It's the Holy Week, a week for contemplation and for some recreation; whatever you will be doing, I hope you make the most out of it and it's nothing short of restful and relaxing for you. :)
PRICE: Moisturizing Cream and Nourishing Cream- P3,600.00; Body Lotion- P1,660.00; Hand Cream- P1,660.00; Foot Cream: P1,660.00
FROM: Free
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in Beautymnl
THE VERDICT:
The first time I encountered Dead Sea Salt- infused products was way back in 2011. I really loved the texture and most especially, the following wondrous effects I experienced through usage: smoothing, re-texturizing, moisturizing, and rejuvenating. I haven't used Dead Sea Salt in a while and when SeeSea Dead Sea Minerals skin care dropped by the door, I decided to give a 'good ol' friend' a try! :)
I have been using the range for a month and my skin looks healthier and more glowing!
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in leading department stores, drugstores, and supermarkets
THE VERDICT:
I was packing some of my stuff last weekend to prepare for a home transfer in the next few weeks and I unearthed a couple of contouring powders including Ever Bilena Contour Duos. I recalled that it was one of the most awaited releases of Ever Bilena last year so I tried it out to review for you guys; better late than never!
It was another discovery- filled week last week as brands launched their newest campaigns and products. It's graduation month and if you're looking for pretty gifts to give, you can get ideas from this list!
Starting with another fantastic collection from The Face Shop, Coca Cola makeup collection.
One of the biggest stars of this generation, Nadine Lustre, starts the year with a bang with the launch of her much- awaited collaboration with BYS, LUSTROUS.
See all the products in the line plus swatches of the makeup products!
I am scrolling through my inbox, looking for an FMF question to answer and this question by Josephine regarding blackheads looks like the perfect one to answer today just because I have a nose pack on right now! Thanks, Josephine for the question!
Hi Martha!
How do you get rid of Blackheads? I have a lot on my nose and they are quite unsightly. I tried exfoliating them away, but it doesn't seem to work.
Josephine
Hey Josephine!
Thanks for the query! First, let's define a Blackhead. A Blackhead is a pore blockage that is a mix of dirt and oil that have oxidized, thus the color and name. Believe it or not, it's considered a type of acne.
There are blackheads that are quite near the opening of the pore, thus they are easier to extract and some are just buried deep down. Here are ways to get rid of them.
Banila Co Mr. Water Ms Oil SLM Gel Cream and Water Beauty Complex review.
PRICE: Cream- P1,000+; Essence- P900.00+
FROM: Free
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in all Banila Co. boutiques
THE VERDICT:
If there's Mr. and Mrs. Smith, there's Ms. Water and Mr. Oil, Banila Co's super hydrating line that combines a water and oil complex to keep skin bouncy, healthy, and hydrated. I've been using this for quite a while now and the products are nice! Digging chok chok skin? Then this is the skin care line for you!
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in SM Department stores and Watsons
THE VERDICT:
BYS' coolest palette, Highlight palette is like a marriage between Anastasia Sun Glow and Sweet highlighting palette. It's what I've been using daily for highlighting my complexion because it's so easy to use that I can even use my fingers to blend it!
I've always had this dream of studying abroad to enrich my knowledge on the things I am passionate about, especially the creative side. But alas, no time, no resources. Studying abroad can be VERY expensive and sadly, some of the international universities that I wanted to take a chance in either had very high standards or they're just plain expensive overall.
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available at @usdirectshoppe on Instagram
THE VERDICT:
The first time I laid eyes on this palette, my heart almost left out of my chest (figuratively) because of the excitement over the fact that this is my first- ever Tarte eyeshadow palette and it's huge! I definitely had that sudden surge of inspiration when I saw the lovely pans inside the palette.
The Internet is a treasure trove of some of the best indie beauty brands. Some are still in its infancy, some are growing, and some are already well on their way to retail domination, but the common denominator is they're all online- grown.
Here's a look at the ten Pinoy online beauty brands that you should put in your must- try list plus the products that I highly recommend that you try!
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in leading department stores and drugstores
THE VERDICT:
Late last year, L'Oreal's new Lash Paradise mascara went viral online for its intense volumizing properties at a very affordable price point; a lot have also said that it's a counterpart for Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara, which fueled the rave even more.
Last week, Lash Paradise has arrived in the Philippines and I got to try it during the weekend.
As follow up for my Fan Mail Fridays post about how to correct light foundations, here are tips on how to correct dark foundation.
Have you ever had a foundation that looks light on the shade representation on the website, but when you got it, the shade is a tad bit dark for your skin tone? We've all had that moment. I'm a morena and I even have my fair share of this problem!
Here are five ways to correct dark foundation without having to throw or give away the bottle.
Nars All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation Syracuse 1 review.
PRICE: P2,900+
FROM: Nars, Central Square, BGC
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in Nars boutiques; Rustans
THE VERDICT:
In today's edition of Wayne Goss Made Me Buy It (LOL), he influenced me once again to purchase what he dubs as "one of Nars' most amazing foundations", All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation. The last Nars foundation I tried was the Firming Foundation and it was a long, long time ago so I don't really remember the general quality of Nars foundations like I do MAC, Bobbi Brown, and Estēe Lauder to name a few, but after trying this, I think all of Nars's foundations are amazing! This is one of the best soft matte, lightweight, long- lasting foundations I have tried!
I think this may be the only time that I'm going to think about whether I'll go on a vacation or buy makeup for summer LOL! Look at all these juicy releases! I just want to buy them all!
Here are the freshest beauty products for your summer beauty goals.
First, let's look at the newest releases in the local beauty scene.
Credit: @nadine on IG
Nadine has teased us for quite a while with images of her much- awaited collaboration with BYS and about last week, she's finally gave a sneak peek of the actual products (insert shocked emoji here)!
From what we've found, Lustruous features a brow gel, eyeshadow palette, complexion palette, brow pencil lipstick, and gold brushes. You can buy them individually or as a set.
I recently visited their IG page and learned that you can pre-order the products so if your a Nadine-natic, what are you waiting for? Get your hands now on her limited edition collection! Yep, you read that right- it's LE!
I was recently sent a box of this intriguing sheet mask from Korea called Crazy Skin Lifting mask that promises an instant lifting action after just one use. What also got me was it turns the face crusty for a while, which seemed fun to me so I tried it out immediately.
Does this mask really lift the skin after one use? Let's find out.
One of the rising trends in skin care is about going back to ancient skin care routines. Enter Jade Roller.
Jade Rolling dates back to ancient China where it was once reserved to the royalties because Jade was considered a very precious stone that is believed to have powers that can effectively ward of negativity and evil energy, thus only the revered one can use it. Literature says that the ancient royals used Jade rollers mainly to absorb negative energy from the body and infuse it with Qi, but the modern world has recently experienced that there's definitely more to the ritual than just spirit science. Looks like the ancients were pretty advanced after all.
I recently tried Jade rolling and it has become a twice-a-week or anytime-I-want-to routine for me. I'll muse to you the benefits, my observations, and tips on how to spot a fake jade roller.
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in Metro Department stores, Landmark department stores, and Nippon Esthetic online
THE VERDICT:
Bohktoh is a Thai false eyelashes brand that is a favorite among pageants and celebrities in Thailand. It's been in the Philippines for quite some time now and has been carving the same path as well. The first time I tried Bohktoh, I was smitten because they have a library of styles that only one can imagine! Bohktoh, to date, is also my favorite brand of false eyelash glue. Check out how fabulous these look on my eyes!
I recently got my hands on Making Faces, a book by the famous Kevyn Aucoin from a book sale (steal at P270.00!) and I got inspired again to create fresh, natural makeup; nothing heavy, no crazy, popping colors; just a flawless base, touch of color, and a bold lip. And I'm reminded once again how challengine it is to create natural, fresh makeup!
So I challenged myself today and created a makeup look for graduating ladies out there; it's fresh, simple, and practically fits any skin tone! It's also a bit of a one brand makeup tutorial and we're featuring Pink Sugar!
Confession: I used to dislike metal lipsticks because I thought they were tacky plus they used to come only in either pink or brown. But thanks to modernity, metal lip color has gotten more sophisticated and varied. Now I like 'em!
I think metal will be the new statement lip in the coming months. If you want to join the trend, then take a look at J.Cat Flash Metal lipsticks, affordable metal lipsticks with stellar sheen and a no- budge formula!
Lip gloss is back and just to refresh our memories, I've rounded up five lip glosses that I loved and found to be the best I've tried. Pucker up and read on.
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in SM Department Stores; Lazada and Beauty MNL
THE VERDICT:
There are times that call for an instant glam up that's why I always have an eyeshadow quad with me whenever I go out. For my luxe pick, I choose Guerlain Palette 5 Couleurs and for my affordable pick, it's Pink Sugar's Eye Candy eyeshadow quads. This will be your new go- to handy eyeshadow when the time calls for a little glam up!
It's summer time once again and Watsons is gearing up for the warmer days ahead with Love The Sun, an interactive area where you can check out the best sunscreen products, try the new ones, and have fun in between! Read on and find out why you should go before it wraps up on March 13, 2018!
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available through Colourette distributors and pop-up shops
THE VERDICT:
One of the key makeup items of the 90's, gloss, is shining nowadays and brands left and right have been coming up with their new lip gloss lines like Colourette. I like my lip gloss glossy, non- sticky, and have a good concentration of color. And I think Colourette has just formulated that for me! :D
Hello there, weekend! Can you smell it now? Can't you wait to just chill and Netflix or just wake up on your own without the alarm clock ordering you when? I do! Oh, wait, I have a workshop on Saturday. But I ain't complaining because it's work! :D
Speaking of smelling the weekend, here's a blog post about perfumes and the best powdery scents out there in my opinion.
Question from Amy and originally, she asked what powdery- scented Jo Malone fragrances that are best mixed together. However, aside from Peony and Blush Suede and Nectarine Blossom and Honey, I don't have any idea of how the other Jo Malone fragrances smell like so instead, I'll recommend my favorite powder- scented fragrances so far.
1. VALENTINO VALENTINA EDP
- Milky, sexy, chic. A sexy powder fragrance that smells innocent, but not coquettish or baby- like. I love the youthful innocence that this fragrance exudes!
- A cottony, powdery scent that reminds you of home. Couple it with a crisp white tee and boyfriend jeans, and you're off to slay the weekend!
3. JO MALONE PEONY AND BLUSH SUEDE
- A soft, floral- powdery scent that's best worn alone in my opinion. I know Jo's fragrances are best for mixing and matching, but for this particular one, it's better on its own.
4. GLOW BY J.LO EDP
- As the saying goes, HIGH SCHOOL FOREVER! Haha! This is one of my well- loved fragrances in high school and I love the playful, powdery fragrance. Makes me feel sexy too!
- A bright powdery floral. This is a feel- good fragrance and when I had it, I had to refrain myself from using it everyday because I loved wearing it to work everyday. Sadly, Philosophy is no more in the Philippines, but if you happen to spot one anywhere, grab it (and tell me where you found it too!).
Hope you loved my alternate suggestions, Amy! :)
**Got a burning question on beauty, makeup, skin care, fragrance, blogging, career, fitness, marriage, or anything in between? Email me at martha.stabarbara@yahoo.com, message me via Contact Form, or buzz me at THE BEAUTY JUNKEE's OFFICIAL FACEBOOK FAN PAGE.
OTHER LOCATIONS: Available in SM department stores and Watsons
THE VERDICT:
I don't know about you, but this is the first time I've used a primer spray, although I've encountered one before with Smashbox. I recently got BYS Primer Spray along with Matte Makeup setting spray and road-tested them yesterday under extreme lengths of walking. So, do they work?
Ah, don't you hate it when vacations come to an end? Although it is the case for our Dumaguete-Siquijor trip this week, I won't leave you 'hungry' because our last post for the day is about an epic food trip I did on my last day in the city of gentle people, Dumaguete.
Aside from its natural wonders, Dumaguete is also known for good eats. See them below:
NEVA'S PIZZA
A pizza place that's a favorite of locals and tourists alike that it earned a Tripadvisor badge!
Neva's is famous for their Kuripot pizza where they use commercial cheddar cheese instead of Mozarella for the pizza. One whole pie can be as low as P70.00! Another great thing to try is their cheesy carbonara!
You can find Neva's Pizza at Hibbard Avenue, Dumaguete City
SANS RIVAL CAFE
Famous for their Sans Rival cake, Sans Rival Cafe is one of the longest standing restaurants in the city that it's impossible to separate it from the identity of Dumaguete. It's like when you visit, it is imperative that you eat at Sans Rival Cafe!
Try out their Sansrival cakes (of course!) and Silvanas. They have good savory meals as well. And don't forget to dine outside and enjoy the view of the sea! Don't forget to take home pasalubong!
Sans Rival Cafe is located at San Jose st. Dumaguete City
JO'S CHICKEN INATO
Dumaguete's answer to Bacolod's Chicken Inasal and Jo's Chicken Inato is the leader in this arena.
Jo's is a local favorite with branches spanning across the Negros region all the way to Cebu and Gensan. Remembering the taste of Chicken Inato, I could say that it's a bit sweeter than Inasal and it's pretty good as well! However, serving time was pretty bad as it took the branch we went to an hour to serve our food.
The Jo's Chicken Inato branch I went to is located at Siliman Avenue, Dumaguete City
STREET FOOD FAIR AT RIZAL BOULEVARD
By 6pm, Rizal Boulevard becomes peppered with vendors of Dumaguete's well- loved street food: Tempura (aka Kikiam) and Squid Rolls. There's enough room and vendors for everyone to enjoy an affordable fare along Rizal Boulevard and don't miss it!
Bossings is said to be the famous Tempura vendor because of his Sauce #5. I chatted with one vendor and she said that Bossings exclusively sells inside Siliman University and only does so during the morning.
L-R: Tempura and Squid roll.
PAINITAN SA PALENGKE
The local wet market is a favorite breakfast place of locals and is the destination for Bodbod and Sikwate. Bodbod is suman (rice cake) and Sikwate is your good ol' chocolate drink.
Aside from Bodbod, there's also Kabog, which is made from Bird Seed. Sounds strange to eat, but it is so good that it ended up being my favorite more than Bodbod. There's also Puto Maya, a triangular- shaped glutinous rice for those who have a big appetite.
Here's Bodbod and Sikwate. Perfect way to start the day!
Our last stop for the day was at Florentina Homes, a charming Spanish old- world hotel hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough for you to enjoy what Dumaguete has to offer.
I'll definitely book a stay at Florentina Homes when I go back!
We went there for Gabby's Bistro, which has a branch beside the famous Sansrival Cafe. Gabby's Bistro serves diner- inspired meals. Meals are priced in the middle and is a good treat before leaving the city. We have here a classic salad, surf n turf, and Beef Teriyaki.
Florentina Homes is located at E. Rovira Drive, Dumaguete.
Burp! That was a good one. Dumaguete and Siquijor, you were wonderful and expect me to be back soon!
Hope this post didn't leave you hungry LOL. Thanks for joining me in this trip! :)
**Cost is for one person only
**Cost does not include airfare, lodging, food, and miscellaneous expenses
Again, I found myself in Bench for a random skin care haul and ended up putting an impulse product in my cart again, and it's Bench Paintbox Brow Thickening Powder. Any product related to brow excite so at only P179, I thought, why not?!
I'm here to tell you that this is yet another great product from Bench!
