Lash In Bloom at Browhaus SM Megamall

Just this month we had a weekday holiday from work, which also meant that I get to use the Browhaus Lash In Bloom GC I got from Project Vanity's 9th Anniversary Kit. I booked my appointment at Browhaus SM Megamall on a Monday afternoon, and despite being a weekday, the place was packed. WOW!

Browhaus here shares their space with Strip, which is the best waxing salon I've been to. They're really OC with hygiene, so this place is perfect for Brazilian first-timers.

Anyway, back to Browhaus! 😊 I love the fresh and quirky interiors. I think they have a different theme for each branch.

Comfy chair!

The service I availed was the Lash In Bloom Extension (Strand by Strand). Browhaus makes use of the finest imported lashes and a new technique of lash extension work together for fuller, longer, and more durable lashes. The length is customized, and it's the client's call if they want to go for a natural or dramatic look. With proper care and occasional tune ups, these lashes can stay in full bloom for 2-4 weeks.

I chose to go the natural route, and was recommended the 8-10mm length lashes. I was on the chair for around 1.5 hours, I almost fell asleep. 😪 You can't open your eyes during the procedure, or else it will sting. On some instances, my lids were being pulled upwards so there was a tiny bit of discomfort, but the end result was amazing!

Before & After Lash In Bloom

Lash In Bloom looks really natural! My colleagues thought I was just wearing eyeliner or a really good mascara when they saw me. It looks real! 😊 It also feels weightless, and I forget I have them on.

I was told to not wet my lashes for 24 hours, but I try not to wet it every time I wash my face. It's been 2 weeks since my extensions, and even though there's a couple of fall outs (around 15 pieces? I lost count), my lashes still look decent. All I do in the morning is use a spoolie to brush them in place, and I'm good to go.

You can get a Lash In Bloom Tune Up (P450/10 lashes) within 3 weeks after the treatment is done.

Lash extensions are definitely my favorite beauty indulgence. (Ugh, I really have to learn how to put false lashes on to save money.) 😝 To avail this service at Browhaus is definitely pricey, but they certainly do not scrimp on the lash count, unlike other salons where there is a set number of strands per eye. I think this one will last me 3 weeks given the rate of fall out. By week 4, I might need to put false lashes on for them to look even.

Price: P3,800 (Shocking ba? Wait, I have a hack for this. Haha)

I'm not working for Sample Room, but this is a really just good deal. Just be a Sample Room VIP Member for P649, and you can already avail the Browhaus Lash In Bloom service. 😉 (Few stocks left as of press time.)

Browhaus SM Megamall

Address: 5F Bldg D Mega Fashion Hall

Phone: +632 5316967

Store hours: Monday to Sunday 10AM-10PM

Love,

Helen

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Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

I love the effect of false lashes, but I don't have the talent for it. When I'm looking for an everyday mascara, I actually prefer a non-waterproof one for easier removal at the end of the day. When I spotted this cute Essence Lash Princess mascara, into my basket it went ASAP!
 

mascara for an irresistible false lash effect and dramatic volume
 

It comes with a conical fiber brush which I find helpful when I want to reach the inner lashes. My lashes have always been sparse. The length is average, but they point downwards.

Before
 

After

Pros:

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara does what it says. The first time I used this, I was told that I looked "blooming". But this was all I ever added to my makeup routine! Big lashes really make a difference. This mascara is not clumpy and it lengthens my lashes well. As you can see, my lashes are invisible to begin with. Haha! So just imagine if you have normal lashes, you'd definitely get that false lashes effect.

Cons:

By midday though my lashes aren't curled anymore, I have to give my lashes a boost by using an eyelash curler. I know this is bad, but I do it anyway. :/ The downfall of this mascara though is that it smudges on me towards the end of the day. It could be my oily face or the humidity, but this mascara isn't smudge-proof.

It's worth its price since it delivers its promises of longer lashes, but I've used non-waterproof mascaras before that didn't smudge on me, so I'm sure that there are other better options.

Price: P349

Available at Watsons/SM Beauty

Facebook: Essence Philippines

Love,
Helen

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The Body Shop Matte Lip Liquid in Taipei Orchid

My friend and I did a makeup swap, and now I have The Body Shop Matte Lip Liquid in my kit - in a shade I wouldn't have picked out for myself. Haha! I usually go for dark lipsticks. My bet from this range was initially the deep and dark Sicily Iris, but the makeup artist recommended me Goa Magnolia (a berry pink shade) which look really flattering against my pale skin. Today, it's going to be about the shade Taipei Orchid! 💋
 

Matte liquid lipsticks are trending and almost all makeup brands have their own version of it, but I was extra happy when The Body Shop finally released their own line of Matte Liquid Lip in 12 stunning shades. The Body Shop doesn't include shady ingredients to their products, so I know my lips won't darken or dry out. The Matte Lip Liquid is 100% vegetarian, and contains no gluten and carmine! The packaging looks simple but classy - from the matte cap to the glossy body, and it's lightweight and durable. I love how the brand is changing to a more modern look for all their products. 
 

All shades of The Body Shop Matte Lip Liquid
 

Taipei Orchid (What a pretty soft pink shade!) 💖
 

Taipei Orchid when worn
Lashes by Seowoo 3S Pre-glued Lashes

First up, this lippie has the most amazingly delicious bubblegum scent! 😍 The formula is creamy, almost mousse-like, and never runny. It doesn't dry too quickly, so you'd have ample time to blend the lipstick evenly. The doe foot applicator works well with blending the formula. It dries down to a velvety, soft matte finish with a cushy feel. It feels so light and non-sticky, I sometimes forget that I have it on! Lasting power is amazing too - around 5 to 6 hours. It even withstands meals, provided it's not too oily. My lip swatch didn't do it justice as it looks lovelier in real life. The shade Taipei Orchid is still a bit on the pale side though, so I cannot wear it with a bare face. I have to add some blush and this one, and I'm good for the entire day. (I still love wearing it since it makes me look like a good and less sungit girl. LOL!) I love its formula, but I will get it in the pretty nude but not pale Nairobi Camellia (which is universally loved by my teammates) or the brighter Goa Magnolia next. 😚

Price: P495

Available at all The Body Shop stores nationwide

Have you tried The Body Shop Matte Lip Liquid yet? 💄

Love,
Helen

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Stay Healthy All Summer with Generika Drugstore!

Generika Drugstore sent me a thoughtful present yesterday - gifts that can protect me and my loved ones from the harmful effects of the excessive heat. I almost expected to see sunblock inside, but they've taken skincare and wellness to a whole new level. 👍

Let's reveal what's inside! 🌞

Keep your summer fun by staying healthy. Whether it's exploring the great outdoors or hitting the beach this season, it's absolutely important we take extra precautions while spending time under the sun. (Because SPF is already a must no matter what season it is!) 

Here are simple reminders to remember so you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of the summer season's excessive heat.

#1 The sun isn't always your friend.

While the heat starts to rise at about 9AM in the morning, the temperature is at its peak between 11AM to 3PM every day. It's best to stay indoors during this time to avoid the sun's harmful UV rays and overheating. But if you absolutely need to go out, make sure to wear loose breathable clothing and apply at least SPF 15 sunscreen to exposed parts of your body. A hat and sunglasses are a must too, as intense amounts of sunlight are harmful to your eyes.

I know that for a fact! My work schedule is moved to 11AM, and my commute has instantly turned me a shade darker after just a couple of days. -_- I used to just use an umbrella because I hate the stickiness of sunscreen, but now I always slather some on before heading out. (I'm currently using Fairywhite BB Lotion.) You can also supplement your skincare by adding Nutrawell Collagen with Astaxanthin and Hyaluronic Acid (P95/sachet) to your regimen. Its key component, Astaxanthin, works as an "internal sunscreen" and helps safeguard the skin from harmful UV rays.

Also, Generika Drugstore has their own brand of face masks! The Fair 'n' Clear Face Masks (P50 each) come in 2 variants: Whitening and Hydrating and Anti-Wrinkle.

#2 Keep cool.

The easiest way to keep cool all day is to stay hydrated. Cold water and iced (but diluted) fruit juice is best. Any drink with high amounts of sugar, or those with alcohol and caffeine should be avoided. If you're at home, stay in the coolest part of the house and keep it ventilated. Use shades or light-colored curtains to block the sunlight. And for the really hot moments in the day, don't hesitate to take a cold bath. Make sure to keep a look out for your loved ones who may be unable to cope with the heat.

It's nice to indulge in cool treats, but always be careful where you get them. I've learned it the hard way when I drank shake sold by a sidewalk vendor, only to end up really sick because the water/ice used might have been contaminated. (That happened years ago, but never again will I buy anything like that.) Nutrawell Probiotics can improve your gut health – boosting your immunity and even help prevent common summer ailments such as diarrhea.

#3 Eat healthier.

Higher temperatures are dangerous for those with existing heart conditions. And that's why this season, it's even more important to keep ourselves healthy by eating the right kind of food. This summer, when you're craving for a sweet treat – eat fresh fruit instead. When eating out or in a party, pick salads over other offerings. Just make sure you don't over indulge when putting too much dressing. And above all, add more veggies into your home-cooked meals. All of this will keep you fit, helping you better withstand the summer heat.

For those who want to improve their heart health, they can take Nutrawell Garlic + Hawthorne Berry + Gingko Biloba. This nutraceutical enhances blood circulation throughout the body and increases oxygen utilization in the heart. 

#4 Exercise wisely.

Now is not the right season to do too much cardio all at once. But if you must, do cooler cardio activities like swimming in cold water. It's also best to shorten and divide your workout time, and do them only before or after the day's hottest periods. If you want to take your exercise outside, make sure to pick shady and breezy spots. But for the summer, it is ideal to do your workouts in a properly ventilated and/or air-conditioned indoor gym.

Those seeking overall wellness will love the Actimed Multivitamins + Minerals. With its balanced formulation of vitamins and minerals, it can help the body cope even in stressful conditions. 

For more health tips or to learn more about Generika Drugstore, simply visit http://www.generika.com.ph/.

Love,

Helen

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Catrice Prime and Fine Professional Contouring Palette

AKA my first legit contouring palette. What a milestone! Dalaga na ko. Hahaha! 😂

I only have a handful of Catrice products in my kit, but we're off to a good start! (This one's part of my Beauty Backstage haul.) I've always shunned away contour/bronzers since I thought I didn't need them, since I wouldn't want to make my face any slimmer, but it actually helps carve out my nonexistent cheekbones! I've seen makeup artists work their magic, and I would love to try it for myself, but most contouring products in the market are orangy. Not this one though! My Catrice Prime and Fine Professional Contouring Palette comes in the shade 010 Ashy Radiance, which has a grayish brown tone, perfect for light/cool skin tones! 
 

The packaging is really simple and straightforward. The texture of the powders are dry (and not too creamy). I see this as a good thing since I won't pick up too much product in one go. This one's very beginner-friendly.

Swatches:

Highlighter & Contour

The champagne highlighter looks warmer on the pan, but it looks a bit whitish when swatched. It's not the best highlighter I've tried, but it's okay. It works for fair skin, but it would appear white on dark skin. The contour shade though, I adore. It warms up my skin just right and it doesn't look muddy or fake.
 

Cheeks: Catrice Prime and Fine Professional Contouring Palette

Brows: Pretty Looks

Lips: SilkyGirl
 

And this is how I look like at work - well behaved. Haha KIDDING! Sometimes I even use violet lipstick. But for today it's my favorite Deborah Milano Absolute Lasting Liquid Lipstick + this contouring palette. I don't have cheekbones, so this one helps! 💛 Also, on days when I use my pink cream blush, I use this contouring powder under the blush, and for some reason it helps my blush stay on all day AKA all day glow! Love it! 😍

Price: P499

Available at Watsons/SM Beauty

Love,

Helen
 

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Rave: Deborah Milano Absolute Lasting Liquid Lipstick is TRANSFER-PROOF!

My first encounter with Italian beauty brand Deborah Milano was during the Beauty Backstage event held last January. Because of that, I got to meet THE lipstick that works as hard as I do, especially during overtime days. I say that because there are days I am too busy to retouch, but this lippie just stays on and on. 💋
 

During the event, Liz raved how amazing the Deborah Milano Absolute Lasting Liquid Lipstick is, and how it's almost identical to Make Up For Ever's Aqua Rouge Liquid Lipstick at half the price. SOLD! In fact, I should have gotten two of this lippie instead of the liquid foundation which was unfortunately not my shade match.

The shade I got was in 13 Light Brown, which is the darkest shade they have according to their site. Step 1 is the Rossetto Lipstick, which has a super matte, quick dry formula.

Tip: You gotta act fast and apply it evenly as it sets quickly. Also, do NOT purse your lips while it's not completely dry or you'll end up with a sticky/clumpy mess.

This step yields a completely matte finish. My lips are pretty resilient, and they don't easily chap or flake, but this one feels drying when worn alone. (For example, Colourpop's Ultra Matte Lip in Mama feels comfy, while Lovebug feels like it's sucking the moisture out of our lips the moment you put it on. This one feels like the latter. LOL) It also emphasizes my lip lines. However, I really love the color as it looks deeper in person than in photos. Also, at this point, it's already transfer-proof. It never transfers when I drink from my tumbler at work! 💛

Step 2 is the clear, glossy Top Coat. Amazingly, the Step 1 Rosetto Lipstick will not stain the applicator of this gloss! 😮

Putting on the Top Coat would darken the lip color, but your lips will thank you! This gloss seals in the color further and hydrates, so it ends up feeling comfortable. I'm not a fan of too much shine, so I blot it out once with tissue so it looks more natural. When you blot, the lipstick does not transfer to the tissue as well.

This lipstick lasts for as long as you do not eat a full meal. That is its only downfall as it wears off on my inner lips after lunch. When I reapply though, it lasts until evening. It's a struggle taking this off with micellar water, so I have to use an oil-based makeup remover with this lipstick. (If you avoid oily food, this will last the entire day!)

Among the x number of lipsticks I've tried from years of beauty blogging, I find Deborah Milano Absolute Lasting Liquid Lipstick to be the most reliable, transfer-proof lipstick I've ever tried (so far). It's perfect for busy days at work, or during events when you barely have the time to retouch your makeup. This is the only glossy lip color I regularly use right now, will certainly use up, and will repurchase (probably in other shades). 💖

Price: P650

Available at Watsons/SM Beauty

Love,

Helen

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SilkyGirl Matte Fever Lipcolor Balm

Just this month, SilkyGirl sent me several shades of their Matte Fever Lipcolor Balms to try. I've reviewed their Moisture Boost Lipcolor Balm range before, and now it's time for the matte version! 😍

SilkyGirl Matte Fever Lipcolor Balm comes in a chubby pen type packaging and is retractable, so there's no need to sharpen. It contains Calendula Flower Oil, White Mulberry Extract, and Vitamin E to soften and soothe the lips. If you're just starting out to explore matte lipsticks and are into vivid shades, this could be the one you're looking for! It's a hybrid of a lip balm and matte lipstick, so it won't ever dry out your lips.

The product is completely sealed upon purchase, and the manufacturing date is printed on plastic seal. (Better take note of it before you throw it out.)

The tita in me was initially shocked with how vibrant these matte lippies are! I was initially so drawn to 05 Passion because I had nothing like it in my collection, but guess which one is my real favorite! 😁

02 Desire, 04 Siren, 05 Passion, and 06 Charm

02 Desire

The shade 02 Desire is like a matte, brighter version of SilkyGirl's Moisture Boost Lipcolor Balm in 02 Coral. It's a pomelo pink shade with a yellowish base.

04 Siren

I LOVE THIS ONE! It's red with a pinkish base. It brightens up my skin tone instantly and makes me look alive even with minimal makeup elsewhere. I regularly wear red lipstick at work, but on the day I switched it up to this shade, I got a lot of compliments. 💋 This is a flattering shade of red!

05 Passion

This shade screams Barbie-pink, and it's very unique! However, it's too loud for everyday wear. This could be used for creative looks.

06 Charm

The shade 06 Charm is my second favorite as it's a lovely berry shade that veers towards hot pink. Among the 4 shades I got, this one's the most wearable
 

SilkyGirl Matte Fever Lipcolor Balms are lightweight - they literally just feel like a light balm on the lips. This matte line is definitely more long-wearing than the Moisture Boost Lipcolor Balms, but they will come off when you eat. Retouch is a breeze though, as this won't ever go clumpy. They just glide on silkily on the lips. Also, they smell like vanilla! 😍 (No flavor though, so you won't be tempted to lick it off.) The brand takes pride in their 4 NOs stand – no fragrance, no carmine, no paraben, and no animal testing.

Price: P299

Available at Landmark, Cash & Carry, and selected Robinsons Department Stores (Galleria, Metroeast, Tutuban, and Cebu)

Website: silkycosmetics.com

Facebook: SILKYGIRL

Which shade of SilkyGirl Matte Fever Lipcolor Balm is your favorite? 😚

Love,

Helen

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