In My Make Up Bag...

Gel nail polish

2011-02-05T20:46:00.000+08:00

Since Nails Extreme is closed for the holiday for a long time and I wanted to have a very lasting nail polish (to survive 2 parties and a trip), I decided to try their Gelish Nail Polish. They claimed that this polish will last at least two weeks or until "professionally" removed. I'm yet to remove it, I've had it since a week ago.. and guess what, they're still intact even with very minimal (if any) care!

It took a long time to apply and dry.. Drying needs help of UV ray! But once dry, it dries completely so there's no worry of having it scratched its color whatsoever.

Although the color choice is not many, you'll be happy with just the classics because they do have the staying power. Priced at RM90 for both hands & feet (not inclusive of manicure and pedicure charges), I say they are worth it!

This video shows how they apply & remove it

I went for Pink & here's how mine looks like!

Smashbox kits

2010-11-10T15:26:00.000+08:00

I blogged about the Sexy Kitty Look for Halloween and little did I know Smashbox Cosmetic actually came up with a make-up set to create the look. While I was at Sephora's website, I also discover that Smashbox also has make-up set to create Burlesque look (which I tried before and failed!).

Visit Sephora website for the whole complete collection. I think Smashbox is available in KL, but I'm not sure where.

With the price like that, I think it's worth the purchase!

USD10.00 at Sephora

USD35.00 at Sephora

Halloween make-up

2010-11-02T16:59:00.000+08:00

This year's Halloween, I decided to go with the Kitty Cat Look. Just because I couldn't find anything easier to do. Doing makeup for cat look is so much fun and so easy!

I watched a few youtube videos and I decided to go with this and made a little change to the eye area just for fun!

Put on a cat's ear piece, a tail and a black bow and you're ready to walk the room kitty style!

Burlesque

2010-10-22T14:36:00.000+08:00

Is it just me or any of you also a fan of burlesque? The dance, the make-up, the costume? and now the nail colors too! OPI has come up with their new color collection named Burlesque in conjunction with the movie of the same name which will be released in the cinema (if the government allows this) next month.

I'm gonna do my nails next week Wednesday and I am so gonna use this color!

Tell me if you're a fan too!

OPI website

Burlesque website

Seaweed Treatments

2010-10-15T18:46:00.001+08:00

I have super oily skin - something that I've been trying to treat for a looong time. And Facial Blotter is with me 24/7 (so all that facial blotters in the goodies bag will be put to good use!)

I am in the middle of using Shu Uemura's PuRenovate range when Nic showed me the Seaweed range from Body Shop that does the same job, BUT at much cheaper price. So I purchased a traveler's set, because I want to see if it works on my skin... and if it does, I will buy the whole range in full size.

I've been using it for two days, so far I see my skin has become less oily, but still oily. I am going to give it two weeks or at least until the product finish before I decide if I want to stick with it.

RM79.00 set includes
Seaweed Purifying Facial Cleanser, Clarifying Toner,
Mattifying Day Cream and Clarifying Night Treatment.

Below is the write-up on this product taken from Body Shop US site;

ADAPTIVE SKINCARE THAT BALANCES

Our innovative Seaweed range delivers essential moisture to where your skin is dry and controls shine when and where you need it. Whether your skin is naturally prone to shine or reacts to the weather, our wild-harvested seaweed is a complete and balanced source of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, so your skin is purified and conditioned.

The range is oil-free, alcohol-free and clinically proven to be non-comodogenic. The leave-on products use our special oil-balancing technology that controls existing sebum on the skin for an instantly mattified complexion, while the active ingredients are retained on the skin to be released as oil is produced throughout the day. Your skin appears clarified, hydrated and shine-free all day.

Dream Unlimited

2010-10-14T22:33:00.000+08:00

Last night, I was invited to the launch of Body Shop new fragrance named Dream Unlimited (tm) and also the opening of its flagship store at Fahrenheit88 (formerly KL plaza).

Like any other Body Shop fragrance, this one too has a strong note to it, which I love by the way and this one I thought was both floral & fresh at the same time. According to Body Shop, "this exhilarating fragrance features notes of citrus, green chilli, white flowers and cedarwood. It has been created exclusively for The Body Shop by two of the world’s leading perfumers."

I received a bottle of its bath gel in our goodies bag last night, and I shall use it every night!

Make your way to Body Shop to smell for yourself!

Eau de Parfum

Body Wash

Body Lotion

Sorry, I forgot to get the price last night, it was too crowded at the store... But knowing Body Shop, the products are affordable.

New Looks from Chanel

2010-10-08T19:43:00.000+08:00

These are the new looks from Chanel and I'm loving them!!

Can't wait to see this in person when they hit the local counters soon.

Now tell me which one do you like the most? I actually like the military inspired nail polish.. I may just get one and don it all throughout the remaining of the year! No more pinky nails!

Diva of Geneva!

2010-08-29T08:50:00.000+08:00

Just got back for Nail Extreme, the new colors from OPI Swiss Collection are in!

I was so excited, because I just saw it in the September issue of InStyle USA.. You can always count on Alice (of Nail Extreme) to bring in OPI latest color!

Let me show off my new nail colors from today's manicure and pedicure session. By the way, I also went for Chocolate Spa - scrub, mask and lotion were all chocolate scented, smell so yummy! And it has cooling effect too!

Mani: The Color To Watch

Pedi: Diva of Geneva

Cost: Additional RM20 for the Chocolate Spa for my feet. My manicure and pedicure is part of a package I signed up at RM350 for six times normal mani & pedi.

Nails Extreme FB page.

Cookie Care

2010-07-18T15:22:00.001+08:00

Would you believe me that there are also products to care for your "cookie"? Just like men's aftershave etc. for their shaved parts?

I thought just ordinary feminine wash would do the job, but apparently there are hundreds if not thousands of these products in the market. I thought it would just be product gimmick at first but one that is a sucker for sweet talk, I purchased a set of three "cookie care". These products are to be used by people who normally wax..

Ok.. I know you'd probably be wondering what are these cute pinkish stuffs... Let me explain..

Smooth Operator

After wax or shave, you'd need this to exfoliate the sensitive skin area. It's actually a scrub. Ok this is what's written on the bottle:

" A gentle, PH balanced scrub, quickly polishes dry areas, removes dead cells and clears congested pores. Helps releases ingrown hairs, for smoother softer looking skin "

Goodbye Forever!

This spray on is to help minimize the appearance of ingrown hair... This one can be used on the face too.. and I've been using it for all over right after shaving or waxing.. Nice smell too!

RM100 for 125ml.

Strawberry Champagne Cocktail

It's not just a moisturizer, it's a seductive moisturizer for all the right places! It's strawberry scented is so yummy!

Too bad that Smooth Operator and Strawberry Cocktails have been discontinued and will be replaced by new improved formula. I have put my order on them and will blog about it when I get to try them soon.

I will definitely add these to my daily grooming routine. Because believe it or not, it does make some difference and improvement. Hubby even commented on it one day :D Of course you just need to take my words for it.. I can't be showing you picture proof!!

Burlesque

2010-07-02T18:40:00.000+08:00

I love classic 60's pin-up look, it's very glamorous, very burlesque, very Dita Von Teese!

I once blogged about wanting to try the look.

This is how I looked after trying out a youtube tutorial by the beautiful Ms Jessica Harlow.

Did I miss something? Or I just don't have what it takes to look like a sultry 60's pin-up girl/burlesque dancer? LOL!

Maybe because I didn't do the wings? Or I didn't draw beauty mark? Or is it because I DO NOT have almost white porcelain skin?

Anyway, this look is very OK for day time even with the red lipstick.. What do you think?

P/S: I'm too lazy to type all the products I used to achieve this look... sorry!

Pure Renovate your skin!

2010-06-19T17:14:00.000+08:00

Remember my post about the Pore Expert Skincare by Lancome?

I may have found a more affordable skincare range for my oily face. I've been using whitening range, but since I have not been golfing for a long time, I figure it's time I tackle my super oily skin.

I was at the Shu Uemura outlet the other day to collect my gift redemption as Shu Fanatic member. I asked for the Purenovate samples to see if it really is as it claimed to be. Guess what?! Even though the sample only lasted me a couple of days, I could see the difference in my skin condition. I don't get oily as quickly as I used to.

So after my current whitening range is finished, I'll be switching to this one. At RM400 ++ for the whole set, it's half the price of my current skincare set.

It claims to be a total oil-control solution for blemish free skin, tightens pores and regulates sebum production for perfectly matified skin.

Meanwhile, if you are interested to get a sample, simply request here. Play the game to win a hamper.

Taking a Chance!

2010-05-12T09:14:00.000+08:00

Chanel Chance Eau Tendre, that is!

Click here to see the video presentation on the campaign.

I am an avid Chanel fragrance fan... I have almost all the latest collection.. The classic ones I leave for the Datins & Puan Sris.. For me, I like the smell of fresh & modern luxury. Besides, the classic No. 5 will only reminds me of my childhood.. Funny, isn't it? I will tell you more about my Chanel fragrance and the stories behind them. In the meantime, in case you didn't know it yet.. Chance Eau Tendre is their latest fragrance and I have my hands on a bottle... And I must say, I will not stop at a bottle.. It smells so divine!

Price tag in Malaysia is just under RM330.00 (I'm not sure though, but should be around there) for 100ml..

Pore Expert

2010-05-05T10:59:00.000+08:00

I was at the Lancome counter to re-stock my skin care when the Beauty Consultant remarked how oily my T-zone was... A skin condition that I've known and wanted to correct for the longest time..

Having oily skin is in my gene. No matter how matifying the make-up products are claimed to be, can't seem to achieve the "matte" look.. Well, maybe only for half an hour.. And another thing about having oily skin is, makeup doesn't seem to last long on the face and eye makeup will create crease and it's not a nice sight...

So, I was introduced to this PORE EXPERT 3D-COLLAGEN CX by Lancome. Price tag: somewhere around 170.00 rm more or less.

I've been using it for a few weeks now, only during the day when I go out and have makeup on.. I used it as I'd use a makeup base. After moisturizer and before sunblock. So far, it has given me better surface for make up and I'm loving it.. And my oily skin is still oily but make up stays longer!

I saw this on the website and would like to try it.. Looks interesting, isn't it? I'll blog about it when I got it in my hands!

Rouge Coco

2010-04-22T22:27:00.000+08:00

I have been waiting for the launch of this product since last year... So when the girl at the Chanel counter told me of the launch date, I marked my calendar.. I was THAT excited!

I signed up for Chanel's cosmetic newsletter in the hope that I'd get latest news on their latest fragrance. I am a BIG fan of Chanel fragrance!

Anyway, I bought a tube of the latest Chanel lipstick Rouge Coco in Legende, the same color worn by Vanessa Paradis in the TV ad. I am sure you have watched the TV ad by now. In case you haven't, this is the youtube link.

Here's the write-up on that tube of pure classic:

ROUGE COCO dresses the lips in an easy and self-evident daily beauty step.
Thanks to its soft, creamy texture and its luxurious, timeless packaging, it is the confidante of each moment of a woman’s life, finding its natural place in the handbags of women today.

The new ROUGE COCO formula combines hydration and comfort.
Created by CHANEL, the Hydratender complex delivers 8-hour hydration with a single application.
The choice of pigments with an utmost quality optimizes the formula’s comfort.
ROUGE COCO offers a satiny and luminous makeup result.

Elegant and luminous, the 30 shades of the range are easy to wear and can be used in your own individual way, according to your mood.
From legendary sites to favorite pieces of jewelry, from passions to symbols, their names recount the life story of Gabrielle Chanel.

A classic has never been expressed this freely

At just below RM100 a tube, I'd say it's worth it.. you can feel the luxury on your lips!

Nails & colors

2010-04-05T13:00:00.004+08:00

How often do you go to nail salon?

If time is on my side, I'll try and visit them every 3 weeks, just for basic manicure & pedicure.. I don't really fancy nail arts.. I mean, how do you eat and do house chores with nails that has got 3D stuffs and ring dangling from it? Besides, they don't really look professional, right?

Anyway, I've been going to this place in USJ Taipan called Nail Extreme since 2007.. The only place I'm comfortable with who carries OPI, so I always trust that they have the latest color collection.

My current rage is The Alice in Wonderland Collection. I've used Mad as a Hatter (shiny purplish glitterish) and Thanks so Muchness! (Very red almost berry color).. They have a miniature collection that I'm thinking of getting.. Just because they're cute!

Another one that I really like is the Suede collection.. Too bad, this nail colors don't last that long, because they don't apply Top Coat, to get the "suede effect".

I swear on OPI nail color.. I think they are the best.. The names are cute too! Believe it or not, the only time I don't have nail color on my toes was 7 days in December last year because of the scheduled surgery.. Apart from that, my toenails are colored every single day since 2007.

Sexy Kitty!

2010-03-15T19:13:00.004+08:00

The last post entry on this blog was about me getting Brazilian for the first time and that was four waxes ago.. hehe.. I can now consider myself an expert at the pain.. hehe

But, what I didn't tell you was I have discovered (or rather they discovered me-I got a text message from them), another Full Service Wax Salon in Bangsar Shopping Center namedHoneyPot Wax Boutique. After I tried their service a week before St. Valentine's Day, I have decided that this will be my waxing salon from now on.. Simply because:

a) their prices are much cheaper;

b) their salon looks and feels cleaner than the Strip, and it's all pink!;

c) they provide better service and they don't push you to get the packages.

d) they call their therapists "Sexy Kitty" rather than, well, therapist..

This is their award :)

And I am so happy with this that I am thinking of venturing into a franchise of this business in KK.. Hmm... Any thought? Here's the Tongue in Chic review on HoneyPot.. Click it for more pictures.

I went Brazillian!

2009-11-15T19:40:00.004+08:00

So I finally did it!

I had "Brazillian All Off" wax done 2 days ago at The Strip, at the Curve.. I was contemplating on whether to share the experience with the masses or not. Tough call! But for the sake of educational rather than anything else, here's my story...

Did it hurt? BIG TIME!!

Will I do it again? DEFINITELY!!

Why, you asked? IT SO WORTH IT!! (Let me tell you why..)

I had enough gut to actually went ahead with the "All Off" option.. The wax therapist even said that it was brave of me to do that on my first waxing session. I'm not sure if I like the other options though..

I was brought into a room where I was asked to strip down and lie down on the table. I was given an anti-septic wipe to clean myself with before the waxing began.

She saw my hair, and she knew right away that I've been shaving and told me that it's not really a good idea! Well, if waxing is not painful, do you think I'd shave at all?

Anyway, she engaged me in casual talks while at the same time applied the hot hard wax and started stripping it off.. The first one was super painful.. But as I was caught off guard, it wasn't as bad as the following ones. I was swearing and was sweating like pigs.. She did the front, she did the back and she did my lower legs... And I was done! All took just 30 minutes of my time.

I'd say that the Brazillian was worth it! Because I left the salon feeling sexier and more confident. I am looking forward to my second waxing which will probably be three weeks from now...

And yes, the waxer girl saw my "everything" and touched "everywhere" but she's a professional and it's her job so she's used to it.. When the waxing part starts, the embarrassing part disappear.. Believe me..

The price of my painful first time : Around RM150 - Not really sure how much, I had add on for soothing serum or something like that

I bought Thalassothys for Softening Post Depilatory care, a cream that claims to refine the hair and slow hair growth... at RM220.

Wish you're here...

2009-08-24T22:33:00.005+08:00

I got to know about Molton Brown when I was in London in January, but back then, I thought what's the point of getting their products if I don't have a bath tub, right? I didn't know back then that I was going to move into a place with my own bath tub...

Anyway, during my recent trip to Sydney, I stumbled upon their store, in fact their first ever store in Australia. I got so excited and it took me almost half an hour browsing through their store trying to get some products I like. And since I was there on their anniversary, they gave me miniature samples as gifts! I like it!

These were what I got.. All 3 for around RM450.00 after currency conversion. Since I wasn't paying, I didn't mind!

I am crazy about bubble bath, especially those that claims to relax our muscles. The feeling of that hot warm water coupled with nice aroma of that bubble bath after a round of golf is simply divine! Since moving to this place, I have been taking long steamy bath almost every other day!

Too bad that Molton Brown is not available in Malaysia. The nearest place I can get them is from Singapore and they are being sold at hotels and spas. Which means that their retail price will be higher. Even those that I got from Sydney are more expensive than the ones I saw in London. Maybe it's the logistic and taxes that they need to cover.

I am sure going to buy a lot more when I visit London next!

More than that, I wish that Molton Brown's here... Maybe I should contact them one day.. hmmm...

Hair pampering session

2009-08-05T11:04:00.004+08:00

I was invited by Harper Bazaar a couple of weeks ago for Hair Pampering Session at Peek-A-Boo Salon in TTDI. I wanted to blog about it but put off the idea until I'm free. So here I am...

The session start with one of Kerastase representative gave us a presentations on the causes of hair loss, dandruff and other hair problems. Most answer we can get online but at least, in this session, we could ask questions. And after the presentation, we were brought to a room with a machine for hair and scalp inspection. When I got mine inspected, the machine/computer 'hang' twice! Goes to show that even machines couldn't take my 'destroyed' hair... Hehehe..

Anyway, the guy who looked at my scalp and hair suggested that I have very oily scalp, a fact that I've known forever. And apparently, due to this, my hair growth isn't considered normal. Normal hair follicles apparently holds five or more strands of hair and mine, well just about three.. And most of them are weak. Panic?!! You think?

And then he went on inspecting my hair tips. For this, he suggested that I have very dry tips... And chemically damaged, due to constant dyeing and lack of hair treatment. I thought I had to cut my hair really short, thinking that's the only way I could save them... However, he said I could still save them... with frequent treatment... Hmmm... Was it just a 'gimmick' so that I'd buy their products?

And so me & the other ladies had our hair pampered, by having hair spa treatment and gentle massage on the scalp & shoulder. It was so nice that I didn't want it to stop.. Believe me, it was truly pampering!

Oh and, I was told that in order for me to NOT get thinning line on my hair part, I must change my hair parting side often and instead of doing a straight line, I should do a zig zag line... This gives the illusion that I have a lot of hair at the crown... Good tips, I'd say!

I left the salon feeling pampered and with a bag of Kerastase products and vouchers for free! Yeay!

Hair Mist

2009-06-27T20:46:00.005+08:00

You know sometimes that shampoo's smell is so overpowering that your perfume sort of got lost in it? Especially when you air dry your hair. And especially when nowadays most of the shampoos sold over the counter are supposedly made with essential oils or flower essences.

That's why I like to use very mildly scented shampoo... I would prefer if they are unscented at all! In fact, I have to get something like that since my scalp is sensitive, just like the rest of my skin.

So when I found Chanel's Allure Tender Hair Mist, I was overjoyed. I've been looking for something like this for ever. I didn't know that Chanel came out with something like this before. I stumbled upon this when I was getting the replacement for my Chanel Coco Mademoiselles at the airport. But since this one is Allure, I canceled my plan on getting CM and got the Allure instead.

A soft pink, sheer mist for pampering hair
Light & easily absorbed without drying effect
Leaves your hair intensely, subtly fragranced
Gives you a refreshing & comfortable feel

Pic & write-up were taken from here.

So now after shower and blow drying my hair, I'd spray some onto my hair and the smell is just heavenly. At RM118 for 35ml, it's an answered prayer!

I'm in love with it!

Brazilian, anyone?

2009-06-17T20:31:00.005+08:00

Photo was taken from here.

I have been intrigued about this Brazilian wax... Hmmm... I know there are some salons that offer this service but none has gotten me so interested as the one at The Curve. It's called The Strip or something like that. I first discovered the outlet when I was out & about with Mel & an aunt. It was because my aunt was around that I couldn't ask the girl at the counter about the process etc. My aunt's an old fashioned gal so she wouldn't be interested about it.

I took their brochures but when I returned home that day, it has become Noah's chewing toy and it was shredded to pieces!

Anyway, I will surely go back there and see if I've got the guts to do it... And definitely will be blogging about it. I'm sure it's something new, and private too... But I don't mind sharing the experience. So, look up for my update on that soon...!

Embroidery..

2009-06-13T11:30:00.005+08:00

I am one of the millions unlucky girls who have a set of very sparse eyebrow. It could be due to the fact that when I was seven or eight, I shaved them off using my grandpa's shaver in an attempt to 'shave off any facial hair I could see'. My mom was furious of course, I was never to be left alone in my grandpa's bedroom ever since. I can't proof this, but I have a feeling that was why they never grow back. Because if you see my sisters and brother, you'd be surprised to see how thick their eyebrows are and mine seems like they are too shameful to show themselves!

And that's why I resorted to having eyebrow embroidery done. I had my eyebrow embroidery done for the very first time two years ago. I found out about it way earlier than that, but I was skeptical... I didn't want to end up looking like the 'aunties' who had their eyes and eyebrow tattooed in permanent green ink! And they used to cost a lot more than now.

The first time I had them done was in a spa I always frequented in USJ Taipan, Veqish Spa. Now, they did good job but I wasn't satisfied. It wasn't good enough for me. So, I needed to wait almost 2 years for the color to fade before I can do a new shape & color. This time, I went to Bluunis in Subang Parade.

The process wasn't that much different from the first one I had. They shaped the eyebrow and shaved off the stray hairs. They then colored in the eyebrow using eyebrow pencil. This is the difference; Bluunis showed you the shape first, to see if you're ok with it before they proceed to the embroidering. After you are satisfied with the shape, you will then be taken to a room to start the embroidering process. Contrary to what the beautician may have told you, it is quite painful. To me personally, it felt like having my eyebrow plucked which was painful because I'd always prefer shaving rather than plucking.

I ended up with thicker eyebrow and the wound being fresh, was sore. But Bluunis provided me with a cream to help soothe and speed up the recovery process. The 'excess' will come out slowly and it took almost a week to see the final result.

The cost is just under RM300, but I'd say that it's worth it! Here's photos:

Day 1: Pardon the 'fresh' face, I just had facial and the embroidery done!

Through Day 3/4 : The color has 'shed' a bit... Almost showing the end result!

After Day 6 : Final result and I don't look like one of the Star Trek characters anymore!

Design & Model

2009-04-03T09:03:00.005+08:00

I went to Isetan cosmetic department the other day to get a replacement for my SPF60++ sunblock. I lost the one I had to a friend who 'accidentally' took it home with her to KK.

While browsing the whole floor... Yes, I can spend hours in the cosmetic department learning about new products and makeup tricks... And then I ended up at Girogio Armani counter. I know from reading beauty magazines that their make up foundations & powders have been voted the best there is in the market. Now, I know I have blogged about Shu Uemura makeup foundation before. But I am one who can never stick to one product.

So I purchased the designer shaping cream foundation with spf 20 and was given samples of makeup primer and Designer modelling compact foundation SPF 22. I tried and tested all the products and I can assure you that I am definitely going back to GA counter for the primer and the compact foundation. The foundation was purchased at RM245, but it's so worth it!

Photos all taken from Giorgio Armani website. More info on the products from the website too!

Nars

2009-02-15T02:00:00.007+08:00

While on my shopping trip to London recently, I managed to get hold on Nars Cosmetic, another fantastic brand of make up that hasn't make its way to our shore.

I have been wanting to try their eye products since they are as popular as MAC in the US. So, I purchased a palette of 6 colors and I fell in love! I have been using them everyday since. I especially love the blusher, the one I purchased is called Super Orgasm and it's a perfect shade of peach for me.

And I love the casing too! It's "rubberish", makes me feel that it's safe in the checked in luggage whenever I travel.

Hoping that they will soon be available in particularly Isetan!

Old Hollywood Glamor

2009-01-05T08:27:00.003+08:00

The Old Hollywood Glamor/burlesque look is seen on many stars at the awards shows nowadays. Definitely an 'In' style!

I am not sure if I can carry this look though since for one to be able to do so, you'd need fair & flawless skin like Dita Von Teese. Do I need to slap super thick foundation and powder onto my face? That doesn't sound right... hmmm.

I have purchased super dramatic false lashes and vampire red lipstick to achieve this look. And I am sure to experiment!

Picture courtesy of www.fanpix.net.

Fake natural lashes?

2008-08-27T23:23:00.003+08:00

The lashes is actually fake but natural at the same time. Confused? So was I when the sales assistant told me about this product called Angel Eyes by Tsuya Tsuya.

She then gave me a product demo on her own lashes (I couldn't let her do on mine since I had my fake lashes on). It was amazing how her tiny lashes appeared to be fuller and longer by just applying a few dabs of the product which apparently were just fiber.

Read about the products in their website. I stumbled upon them at Sungei Wang Plaza where they are being sold at RM79.00 each. I will post a picture of me after applying the products soon.

Moisture Kick

2008-08-27T23:08:00.004+08:00

I have long hair... And apparently my husband thinks that long hair is sexy and he would kill me if I chop them off! Being a baldie and a roughie, he doesn't know and couldn't care less about taking care of them.

Since I've been active under the sun lately, it finally takes its toll on my hair. Before golf, my hair was easy to manage and I have a routine of coloring, highlighting, spa'ing', treating basically anything to do with maintaining my hair.

And since golf, I noticed that my hair is a little bit drier. It tangles easily and the texture is not as smooth as before. And after a game with another lady golfer 2 weeks ago, while in the changing room I realized that I've forgotten to bring my hair conditioner so desperately I asked my golf buddies if I can have some of theirs. And Tini handed me her Schwarzkopf Bona Cure Moisture Kick in a spray bottle. It worked so well that I thought I've got to share it.

If you happen to hate applying conditioner after you shampoo, this is the product for you. It's also good for those who wants that extra conditioner even after you condition it. It's simple, just spray to your towel dried hair and just blow dry your hair like usual. The product will make the blow drying job easier. No more tangle, no more dry tips.

I got mine at a salon for RM45.00, not bad if it lasts a long time.

I dreamt of it long...

2008-06-23T12:46:00.005+08:00

I've been told by Lucy several times that I should try using clip on hair extension instead of teasing my hair crown to get that volume I desire. Much as I thought about getting it, I didn't want it bad enough to purchase them online. For fear that they might not suit my hair color or I'd be disappointed with the length.

So when I happened to stumble upon a wig store in Jakarta, I was excited. Without thinking much, I tried on several pieces and it actually looked good.

I am not sure actually where you can get it here in Malaysia, but I have taken their telephone number and I will definitely re-order some pieces soon when I feel like it. I will definitely write about a store in Malaysia that sells this product if I ever come across one.

Meanwhile, this is how I look with those extra inches...

And a video tutorial I found on Youtube to show you how to put them on (Just in case you are curious!) ;)

Good day, Mr. Sun part 2

2008-06-10T22:58:00.002+08:00

Oh My God! I found out from a magazine today that it is NOT ok to put makeup on when you plan to be under the sun for a long time... I have been doing that every time I was out playing golf, minimum of 4 hours at a time..! Wow! Luckily for me, I haven't seen or noticed the effect of such action.

Apparently, putting on makeup and foundation when you are going to be under the sun and sweat can cause bad effects... It can cause blocked pores thus resulting in black heads and acnes! Especially to people with open pores and oily complexion... Yup! That's me...

The magazine also said that if we must put on makeup for some reason, the best way is to use tinted moisturizer instead... The problem is they mostly come with SPF 15... which is not really enough because I believe that in Malaysia (tropical countries), we probably need at least 30++! Maybe slapping more means you give your skin a double doze but that doesn't sound right...

So, I'm going off to the cosmetic counters soon and start my hunt on the ultimate Tinted Moisturizer... Heard that the Stila Sheer Color Tinted Moisturizer and the Origins Nude and Improved Bare-face Makeup with SPF 15 Sunscreen are good buys... Well, we'll see about that.. Stay tuned for my review.

MAC Tendertones

2008-06-07T15:50:00.001+08:00

LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!

For a girly girl who likes the color Pink, this is a God Sent! The new lip color from MAC...

I'm going to MAC counter in a bit and get one and will let you know my finding... I am searching one pink lipcolor to replace my finishing one anyway..

Until then...

Sexy Smoky Eyes!

2008-06-06T10:18:00.001+08:00

Everybody likes to feel vampy & sexy at times, apparently the smoky eyes are the way to go if you feel like it. Though it looks like it needs a lot of work, it's actually the easiest to do! You can't go wrong creating this look... As long as you know a few basic rules:

It should be darker near the eyes and go lighter towards the brow. (not sure how to explain this properly)
Blend the medium shadow & highlighter at the crease so you won't see the 'lines' thus, creating smoky effect.
Line the eyes with heavy eyeliner, preferably with gel or pencil (liquids are for steady hands). My fav is BadGirl by BeneFit.
Line lower eye and smudge it with same eyeshadow you used at the lid.
Apply fake lashes if you like or you can just apply 3 coats of mascara if you are blessed with long, thick lashes.
Go easy on the cheek and lips. Light pink on the cheek and nude color on the lips.
The trick is blending well and drawing attention to the eyes.

Now that you have the smoky sexy eyes, dress to kill and oh.. don't overdo the hair.. attention should be to the eyes, remember?

If you can't really visualize the above, feel free to watch this home made video tutorial I found on Youtube...

Just to share, these are my tools for creating that smoky eyes...

Eyebase: MAC paint pot in Rubenesque
Eyeliner: Benefit's BadGal
Eyeshadow: Bobbi Brown Black Plum
Highlighter: Bobbi Brown Vanilla
Fake lashes: Shu Uemura's Smoky Layers

This is a version of my subtle smoky eyes

Face/Off

2008-06-02T22:41:00.002+08:00

No, I'm not talking about the infamous movie by Nicholas Cage/John Travolta. I'm merely talking about makeup here. Makeup Foundation to be exact.

There are a lot of different types of foundation nowadays that I believe us girls are spoiled for choice. I remember when I first started wearing makeup, I didn't believe in putting on foundation. 16 at that time, press powder was enough on my still immature skin. I didn't have lines, dark spots nor a bad T zone.

As I grew older, I've tested and tried a few different foundation - Liquid, stick and 2-way powder. I remember my first 2-way powder foundation was from Revlon, my first stick foundation was from Maybeline and my first ever liquid foundation was from Cover Girl (At that time, the only store that carried Cover Girl was Tong Hing in Gaya Street).

And then just like skincare, no matter how comfortable I was with my first batch of foundations, I have to change them to adapt with the ever changing condition of my skin. I was quite happy with the Bobbi Brown stick foundation, but it felt 'cakey' on my oily skin. Maybe because I had to apply thick layer to smoothen up those uneven surface of my face skin. And it always ended up making me look like I slapped a few layers of paint on my face, you know, when it's too fair on the face and a tanned on the neck?

Recently I discovered a new liquid foundation by Shu Uemura. It's called Face Architect Smoothing Fluid Foundation. It's the best so far!

I've been applying foundation using sponge all these times, until the girl at Shu Uemura counter taught me how to apply foundation with the foundation brush. She was trying to push the foundation brush for me to buy but I bought this Bobbie Brown professional brush set not long ago and I was sure that foundation brush was in the set. And so I've been applying foundation with the brush. The finishing effect is much better than applying with a sponge and not so wasting. You know it's wasting that you use sponge, right? Sponge absorbs the liquid and you end up with less on the face. So. I've thrown away all the sponge that I have in my make up bag... Besides, they are not really that hygienic.

The beauty of going to a cosmetic counter is learning all these skincare & makeup trick from their in-house makeup artist. This is what I learned about setting foundation. After washing, toner and serum & moisturizer, wait for 3-5 minutes to let the moisturizer set before applying the foundation, and then only the concealer. And finish it with loose powder.. You get this routine, you'll get longer staying smooth face. Happy trying!

Lip Service... ;)

2008-05-30T21:03:00.001+08:00

I am so sure that every woman, even those who don't do makeups, has at least one lip gloss/lip stick/lip balm/lip stain or whatever you want to call it. One thing for sure, all of them serve the same purpose, that is to make our lips looks fuller, therefore sexier... admit it or not.

Lipstick should be worn for longer staying color on the lips and must be applied after the lips have been lined. For truer color on the lip, some people suggested that make up foundation should be applied first. I think that every girl should have at least 3 different colors of lipstick; Pink to go with the cool eye shadow color, red to go dramatic with less eye shadow, and nude to go with heavily made up eyes. Also a lip gloss for days when one wishes to have that natural look; also great on top of lipstick.

There are many lipsticks with different formulas available at the market now. Long staying lip stick might be good for some, but for me the normal ones would do. It's just that I like white linen for my bedding and if I once use a long staying lipstick and the color won't get off even after I washed my face and use makeup remover on it. I ended up with stains on my pillow cases the next day. I don't like re-applying my lipstick a lot of time too but I find that it stays longer if I wet my lips now and then. Stays even longer if I apply lip gloss on top of it. And there are some people who like to use brush to apply their lipstick. Do yourselves a favor, don't use brush on your lipstick, lipstick... It's a wastage and you'd end up with ugly, crooked lipstick.. If you must use brush, get a palette of lip color instead. That's what the lip brush for anyway.

There will be argument on which lipstick is the best there is... People has different opinion and different choice. I love Shu Uemura's lipsticks especially the pink color (not sure what the color no is), Bobbi Brown for the browns, MAC for the nude (Not sure the name but it's from the N collection released earlier this year) and Chanel for the red (very Hollywood Glamor) and for lip gloss, nothing beats Lancome Juicy Tubes. The color and the nice smell that goes with it is irresistible. Don't believe me? Ask my husband!

I spy with my eyes...

2008-05-29T22:46:00.000+08:00

I know you have heard this before: "Eyes are like windows to the soul"... Ya, old news..

And I also know that cosmetic contact lenses color your soul, err... your eyes. And somehow it changes the size of your eyes and almost the way you look. Some people wear them to correct their eye sight and at the same time experience with colors. As for me, I use them just to experience the colors. And I admit that I'm guilty of trying every color there is in the market and almost all available brand in Malaysia.

I am sure that the popular ones are either Freshkon or Freshlook. There are no difference if you ask me. Some people thinks that Freshkon lenses are thicker than Freshlook. For me, the difference is only in the color and of course price. Freshkon being the cheaper lot but the price difference won't make impact on your wallet anyway.

I use them to enhance my eyes or at least the way they look when I go out for dinner, party or club. Once, I wore aqua color contact lens for a theme party and at that time I had super black hair, long and straight. People almost scared of me, I thought because I look like a goth girl, except maybe instead of black nail color, I use red, bright red. Needless to say, that was the one and only time I wore that color.

From all the experience I have with colored contact lenses, I learned that not everybody can pull off every color. While brown & green look more natural on my eyes against my skin tone, blue & grey make me look sickly. Don't even imagine me in purple! There's one color that's almost brown but it's lighter and if I'm not mistaken they named it 'Honey'... I look like I'm down with jaundice if I put that on!

But most of the time, I go crazy on my eye shadow and leave my eye color au naturel... Saves me from discomfort and dried up eyes. Especially when going to a club with all the smokes!! It may look sexy at 8pm when you are getting ready, but at 1 pm, people might scream thinking that my eyes are bleeding!

FYI, using contact lenses too often over time can tear your eyes and leads to infection. That's what happened to an aunt, the doctor told her when she went to do Lasik on her eyes, she had been wearing contact lenses everyday for more than 10 years!

Besides, don't you think that too much of fake are... well, just too much..?

Good Day, Mr. Sun!

2008-05-29T12:45:00.000+08:00

I casually mentioned the need for facial sun screen to a girlfriend when she said that she has been using Lancome UV Expert DNA Shield with SPF 50. I thought I should try this on the days when I need to be under the sun for hours. So, I made my way to Lancome counter in Subang Parade and purchased one (costs me around RM160.00 for 30ml).
I didn't really study about this product before I bought one. I trusted my friend. What better way to trust a product than word of mouth? Being new to this (I usually put on moisturizer with minimal sun protection), I didn't know how and when to apply it. So, I instead of asking the consultant at the counter, I googled it instead and found this website. By now I already know that sun block is to be applied at least 30 minutes before skin exposure to the sun, and to be re-applied after 2 hours.

I have been using this for the last 2 months and so far I'm very happy with the result. I'm sure everybody's aware of what harm can the Sun do to our skin, and I'm sure don't wish to take it lightly. So far I haven't had any skin problem related to the Sun, around my face.. No pigmentation, no premature wrinkle and hoping that there won't be any forever! Just wish that it's a cheaper so I can apply them all over my body!

False, Faux, Fake?

2008-05-27T14:30:00.000+08:00

Lucy introduced or shall I say taught me about Fake Lashes in May last year. When I saw her wearing them when she came to visit, I was amazed or rather fascinated. I wonder if I could put one too. If yes, that would be the end of my non-existence lashes.

So we went to Shu Uemura's counter somewhere in KL and I bought myself a pair. I must say the first time I put it on, I had quite a headache. Maybe because my lids were adjusting to the increment of weight caused by the super thick lashes.

And then I got hooked. There was not one day went by without me wearing a pair. It has became an obsession... The first month was rather difficult for me to put them on. But then after that, it was total breeze. Now, I only need 5 minutes to put both of them on. Used to take me almost one hour!

I know Shu Uemura's lashes are getting expensive now, that's why sometimes I opted for cheaper versions. Here in Subang, it is very easy to get a good quality fake lashes, those that are normally used by makeup artists. They use synthetic hair but it's soft to touch, not as soft as Shu Uemura/MAC lashes. But strangely, these cheap lashes are more durable than shu uemuras or MACs. Maybe because it's synthetic but really, I don't know why...

Anyway, here's my collection of fake lashes.

I can't help but to let you know that my all-time favorite is Luxe Black by Shu Uemura. The look is soft & natural yet fabulous!
To those of you who'd like to try but don't know how to, you can visit any fake lashes counters and I am sure the sales people will teach you the way. The one in Wisma Merdeka was quite helpful. I post a video tutorial here I got from Youtube just in case:

How often do you change your skincare products range?

2008-05-26T06:51:00.000+08:00

I know almost every girl can't go a day without skin care. I am too. My question is 'How often do you change your skincare product range?'

I believe that, just like antibiotics, our skin will eventually get immune after using the same skin care range overtime.

As for myself, the longest range of skincare I've ever used was Biotherm Biopur range. After almost 3 years, I found that it wasn't working anymore. Due to financial constraint at that time, I opted for less expensive products that can be found in pharmacy and tried Loreal Pure Zone. It did good to my skin. Friends & family told me my skin looked better, I guess they worked. I have been using them since.

Until recently, I took up golf which means I will be under the Sun for at least 4 hours at a time. I went to every cosmetic/skincare counter to look for something non-greasy and help me with uneven skin tone (must thank Lucy for this). After a lot of sampling, I decided on Biotherm Line Peel. Guess it's the right skin care for women of my skin's condition; scars, uneven skin tone, oily and aging.

Check out the range, click here.

Yet another blog...

2008-05-25T14:41:00.000+08:00

A girly girl can never stops talking about make up or any other beauty products... Hence, the birth of another blog of mine.

It's true when they said "Beauty is not skin deep" but hey! it doesn't hurt if you are easy on others' eyes. I am sure that every girl wants to look their best everyday.

This blog is meant for us to share our opinions and experience with the massive number of beauty products that are available in the market now.

If you happen to visit this blog with only one post, do come back. I will be blogging about my experience with a girl's second bestfriend, cosmetics...