REVIEW: Bobbi Brown Illuminating Cheek Palette in Peach

 The top of the palette is bright coral

~AG~

This Bobbi Cheek Palette in Peach contains Havana - a light pink brown,  Pink Coral - a bright nectar and  Peach - a golden highlight. This palette is ideal for those with light to medium skin tones. Bought it last year from Bobbi Brown website for US$50 (S$68). Took me a while to finally try this palette.

The packaging is sleek and compact. Though it does not come with a travel brush. This palette is great to travel with because it comes with 3 different cheek products - blush, bronzer and highlighter. At first I thought that the Pink Coral (shade pictured in the middle) would be too pink for my Asian skin tone. However, if you use a light hand, Pink Coral can brighten up the whole face.Usually Western makeup products tend to be intense for the contour shade, so it might not compliment Asian skin tones. Though, I would have to say Havana is not too brown for my yellow skintone. For reference, I am Chanel Shade 22 Beige Rose. It works well to contour my cheekbones and jaws. My least favorite product is the highlighter, Peach. Because the shade and shimmer is not glowy enough. With that being said, the highlighter is still okay for daily use. But for special occasions, I would stick with Becca Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector.

 From Left to Right: Havana, Pink Coral and Peach

Overall, this is a good everyday cheek palette to use. The shades are flattering and easy-to-use. Instead of bringing 3 products when traveling, this palette has all the cheek products you need. Sad to say that this cheek palette is no longer available on Bobbi Brown . Though they still have a similar cheek palette available called Take It to Glow Highlight and Bronzing Powder Palette

REVIEW: Physician Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush

~AG~

Bought this Physician Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush when I was in the U.S. Physician Formula is a drugstore brand that is readily found in Target, Walmart, CVS and Ulta Beauty. Though it is less commonly found in Singapore. I have seen some Guardian stores carry Physician Formula products. 

This Physician Formula Mood Boosting Blush costs US$10.63 (S$15.50). It is available in three colors: Warm, Natural and Rose. It contains a vibrant mix of blushing tones infused with a pop of color to give a healthy glow. The blush contains multi-reflective pearls to add radiance to the cheek.

It is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and paraben-free.This blush is infused with Happy Skin and Euphoryl, natural plant extracts which have been shown to promote a feeling of happiness by mimicking the effect of Endorphins (feel-good hormone) and protecting the skin against environmental aggressors. The sweet scent of violet provides a feeling of joy each time you apply.

The plastic packaging includes a small brush and mirror at the bottom of the blush. The heart design of the blush is pretty. It comes with 5 different pink/blush shades. I cannot say that this blush boost my mood. The pink shade is too bright for my liking, so I tend to use the nude and peach shades. It is not as pigmented as other blushes - Benefit box blushes or Tarte blushes. The formula of the blush did not cause my sensitive skin to breakout.

Overall, this blush is nothing special and I would not recommend it. 

NEW BUY: Bobbi Brown Illuminating Cheek Palette in Peach

 

Bobbi Brown Illuminating Cheek Palette

~AG~
Mid last year, I had bought this Bobbi Brown Illuminating Cheek Palette in Peach from Bobbi Brown's official website and had my friend brought it back for me. Bobbi Brown is one of the first high-end makeup brands that I discovered during my college days. Their corrector, concealer, foundations and their shimmer brick compact are well-made products. Decided to buy this cheek palette because it contains a blush, bronzer and highlighter. A cheek palette would be extra handy when traveling. Cheek Palette in Peach contains Havana - a light pink brown,  Pink Coral - a bright nectar and  Peach - a golden highlight. These shades are ideal for those with light to medium skin tones. It retailed for US$50 (S$68) which is quite pricey but it is 3 products in one packaging.

From Left to Right: Havana (Bronzer), Pink Nectar (Blush) and Peach (Highlighter) 

This Bobbi Brown Cheek Palette was available in Peach and Guava. Though their website now has only the Illuminating Cheek Palette in Guava. It is selling at a discounted price of US$21. The Guava palette is for medium to rich skin tones.

I will try this Cheek Palette soon and let you know whether Bobbi Brown blush, bronzer and highlighter are worthy addition to my makeup stash.

REVIEW: Benefit Dandelion Travel Size

 ~AG~

Sharon Park, my wonderful makeup artist used this blush/highlighter on me for the prewedding (engagement) photoshoot and it surprisingly showed up well on my skin. Since I still have a handful of other blushes in my collection, getting a mini version makes me less guilty. This travel-sized version also comes with a soft bristle brush. Bought this from Ulta Beauty for US$15 (S$21). This box powder blush from Benefit is an iconic beauty product. Dandelion is a pale pink powder that has soft shimmers. This box powder gives a nice radiant glow. I would have never thought Dandelion would be suitable for my warm skin tone. For shade reference, I am Urban Decay Shade 3.0, Bourjois Shade 52 (Vanille), MAC NC 30, Bobbi Brown Beige (3) and Chanel Beige (10).

A soft pink shimmer

This box powder comes with a brush

Dandelion is a great highlighting powder to use everyday to achieve that healthy glow. You can layer it on to make the pink pop more. The good thing about this blush is that it will not be powdery even if you layer it on. *thumbs up* I would recommend Benefit Dandelion for those with light to medium skin tone. 

NEW BUY: Drugstore Haul

 My haul from Target

~AG~

My favorite place to browse through drugstore products in the United States is Target. It has a great selection of beauty products at reasonable prices. As I write this post, I miss Target beauty aisles even more. 

Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara 

US $6.99 (S$10)

-- It is the first patented fanning brush with 10 layers of bristles to create a full fan effect.

EOS Hand Lotion in Berry Blossom 

US$1.99 (SS$3)

-- The palm-sized packaging is cute. This hand lotion contains shea butter, aloe and oats to keep hands soft and smooth. It is fast absorbing and also non-greasy. 

Aquaphor Lip Repair 
US$3.97 (S$4)
-- This drugstore favorite relieves dry and chapped lips. It provides long-lasting moisture for the lips. Formulated with Shea Butter and Chamomile for well-moisturized lips.

Physician Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush 
US$10.63 (S$15.50)
-- This blush is infused with Happy Boost Blend containing Happy Skin and Euphoryl, natural plant extracts which have been shown to promote a feeling of happiness by mimicking the effect of Endorphins (feel-good hormone) and protecting the skin against environmental aggressors. 

Physician Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum 
US$9.63 (S$14)
-- This special product enhances the appearance of lashes while providing definition an eyeliner. Lash Boosting Complex targets the base of the lashes where it is most effective. The eyeliner claims to be water-resistant and smudge-resistant.  

Yes to Miracle Oil primRose Oil Mud Mask 
US$2.50 (S$3.70)
-- This mud mask contains primrose oil to soothe skin and calm redness. The mask leaves skin feeling cool and hydrated. 

Covergirl Full Lash Bloom Waterproof Mascara 
US$6.99 (S$10)
-- I am a big hand of Covergirl mascaras. This is mascara has petal-shaped brush and soft mousse formula to create full lashes that are not stiff nor brittle.

NEW BUY: Ulta Haul

 ~AG~

Let me introduce you to Ulta Beauty which can be found in the U.S.A. Ulta Beauty is similar to Sephora though they also carry drugstore brands such as Maybelline, NYX, Cover Girl, as well as a variety of hair care products. I <3 walking through Ulta Beauty to browse their mini-sized version of beauty products.

Here are some things that I purchased from Ulta Beauty:

1) Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo US$12 (S$17)

For days when I wake up late and do not have time to wash my hair. I have tried several dry shampoo before and this dry shampoo is my favorite yet. It does not leave any white residue on dark hair. Plus, it really absorbs oil and leaves hair feeling fresh. 

2) Benefit Dandelion Mini US$15 (S$21)

Sharon Park, my makeup artist used this blush on me for the prewed shoot and it surprisingly showed up well on my skin. Since I still have a handful of other blushes in my collection, getting a mini version makes me less guilty. Hehe ^_^

3) IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Corrector in Medium US$29 (S$41)

My sister, MG, asked me to try the IT Cosmetics Undereye Concealer. 

What really attracted me to this product was the claim that it is "8 hours of sleep in a jar". It contains green coffee extract, cucumber, avocado, aloe, peptides, niacin and hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed collagen. All these beneficial ingredients must be of some help to my dark circles. *cross my fingers*

The corrector has a creamy texture that is lightweight. 

4) Eco Tools Deluxe Fan Brush US$5.99 (S$9)

A fan brush has been on my wishlist for a while. A fan brush is great for applying a light finish of highlighters or powders. Eco Tools is a great drugstore brand for brushes. I bought some Eco Tools brushes 4 or 5 years ago, and it still works well! The bristles are soft and it does not shed much. 

5) Eco Tools Eye Perfecting CC Brush US$5.99 (S$9)

This is part of Eco Tools new collection, Complexion Collection. This rounded tip brush mimics the shape of a finger for easy application of cream, concealers and moisturizers around or under the eyes. This brush results in less tugging around the sensitive eye area.

REVIEW: Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche

Chanel signature tweed design. So beautiful!

~AG~

Bought this Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche last December. NEW BUY: Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche This Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche has been my favourite blush/highlighter for a few months now. Though, I think this work more of a highlighter than a blush. It gives a subtle healthy glow, which is great for everyday use. The pigment is very light and natural. It takes about 2-3 layers for the blush to show up on my medium skintone. When you put the blush on the brush, it does not look like much. But when applied, it creates a beautiful glow - lit from within look. 

For those that prefer a more vivid blush shade, it might not be your liking. For comparison, NARS Orgasm Blush is more pigmented. I would recommend applying a more pigmented matte blush such as Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush first, before layering it with Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche. Another great thing about this Chanel Blush Duo is the fine shimmers that creates a nice glow.  It is an especially great way to brighten up my tired complexion. In addition, this blush did not trigger any adverse reactions on my sensitive skin - no redness, no bumps or no new breakouts. Yay!

My quick everyday makeup usually consists of: Cle de Peau Beaute concealer, Visee Nudy Rich Eyes eyeshadow palette and this Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect. This product has become a must-have in my makeup bag. The price tag of S$57.30 might put off some potential buyers, but it is definitely worth the price. I am glad I bought Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche. I would definitely recommend this Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche for anyone that is looking for a natural cheek product that gives a pretty glow. 

REVIEW: IOPE Air Cushion Blusher SPF 30 PA ++

~AG~

Bought this cool IOPE Air Cushion Blusher for KRW 22,000 (S$26) from Aritaum store in South Korea. IOPE Air Cushion Blusher is pricey for a blush, but the advanced packaging and applicator warrant for it. You have probably heard of CC Cushions that have transformed the beauty market. CC Cushion is available not only by Korean beauty brands, but established Western beauty brands such as Lancome, Bobbi Brown and Dior have their own version of a CC Cushion. The CC Cushion technology was created by Amore Pacific which is the parent company of well-known Korean brands such as Laneige, innisfree, IOPE and Etude House.

IOPE Air Cushion Blusher comes in two shades:
01 Rose Pink
02 Peach Sherbet

The shade that I purchased was 02 Peach Sherbet, I was contemplating between getting this one or the 01 Rose Pink. But opted for 02 Peach Sherbet because it is a blush shade that I do not have. 

The usual CC Cushion packaging 

Peach Sherbet

So after trying it for a few week what can I say?
IOPE Air Cushion Blusher is very pigmented, and the shade Peach Sherbet shows up well on my medium skin tone. This peach shade surprisingly looks nice on my NC30-35 skin tone. A little product goes a long way. You only need to tap the cushion slightly to get enough pigment. IOPE Cushion Blusher gives a nice glowing finish, and will work especially well for those with dry skin type or live in drier climates. I can imagine this blush will be very suitable for my mother who was dry skin type, as it will not accentuate her fine lines. 
This IOPE Cushion Blusher has fine shimmers that look flattering. For those that do not like a moist look, you can apply a bit of colourless powder after applying this blusher to make it matte. This is what I usually do after application of IOPE Air Cushion Blusher, because I have oily-combination skin. IOPE Cushion Blusher stays on pretty well, it does not lasts all day in Singapore's humid weather, it lasts for about 4-5 hours. 

Shimmery blush

The blush shows up even on fair complexion

It gives a lovely peach glow

IOPE Air Cushion Blusher 

Blush Series - Powder Blush, Highlighters & Cream Blush

~AG~

BLUSH

1. Benefit Cosmetics Sugarbomb Box o' Powder Blush
- This is a more 'bronzey' blush that is suitable for a sunkissed glow
- The shades are very pretty and blends well together
- Plus, the blush has a sweet scent

2. Nars Blush in Orgasm
- The highly-awarded powder blush by Nars
- This peach blush with gold shimmers works well for various skin tone. 
- I would not recommend this blush for those with dry skin, as it can accentuate dry patches

3. Tarte Pin-Up Girl Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush Palette
- My FAVORITE blush palette! It has various pink and peach shades. You can pick and chose  the shade based on the look of the day. 
- A great piece to have in your makeup arsenal. Highly recommended!
- Highly(x2)  pigmented and has good staying power. 

4. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush
- If you are looking for a matte blush, this is the blush for you. 
- Great pigmentation and stays on very well.
- Works well for sensitive/oily skin. 
- Nothing to complain about this wonderful powder blush

5. NYX Powder Blush in Ethereal
- An affordable dupe of Nars Blush in Orgasm, though it is not as pigmented
- Shimmery peach shade that will be great for fair-to-medium skin tone

6. Benefit Cosmetics CORALista Box o' Powder Blush
- A shimmery shade similar to Nars Orgasm though it is more shimmery
- This coral/peach shade is much lighter than Nars Orgasm, and works well for fairer skin tone

BLUSH/HIGHLIGHTER

7. Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact in Rose
- This was my first Bobbi Brown purchase and I loved this!
- Love this shimmery blush and highlighter product
- People often comment on my healthy glow when I use this product
- Works well for my warm, medium skin tone
- Easy to use, you just swirl your brush and apply it to the apples of your cheeks

8. Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche
- Beautifully designed powder, you can expect no less from Chanel!
- Finely-milled shimmers that are oh-so-flattering
- It works more as a highlighter than a blush as it does not give off as much color

CREAM BLUSH

9. Stila Convertible Color in Lillium
- Great for those new to cream blush as it is easy to apply - you can use your fingers to apply the cream blush
- The shade, Lillium, works well to create a fresh, healthy glow. Cream blush creates a more natural look than powder blush.
- Works especially well for those that have dry skin type. For oily/combination skin type, I recommend powder blush instead, p.s: see #4 (Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush).

NEW BUY: Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Rose Peche

~AG~

Beautiful tweed design

Mademoiselle’s legendary tweed now comes in a refined blush for lovely sheer makeup. This duo of shades, sprinkled with golden or silver pearly pigments, is delicately woven to reveal the softness of the powder. Its soft and airy long-wear texture ensures easy application. Slightly sheer, satiny and ultra-soft, LES TISSAGES de CHANEL lightly drapes the face in radiance and helps sculpt it by creating a subtle interplay of shadow and light.

This has been on my makeup wishlist for a long long time! Finally decided to get it because I LOVE beautiful shimmery shade. The shimmer is slight yet very flattering. Bought this at Changi Airport Shilla Duty Free for S$57.30. There were 2 other available shades: Tweed Pink and Tweed Corail. The shade I selected was Rose Peche, which has a warm pink undertone. It will complement my medium, warm skin tone. When I swatched this shade, the pigment was absolutely beautiful. There was no way that I could control myself from resisting it. I cannot wait to try it!

With hints of shimmer

REVIEW: Bloom by Roseanne Tang Trial Makeup Class

~AG~

With Nuraishah and Roseanne Tang

 

Last Tuesday, I went for Roseanne's trial makeup class on contouring, blush and highlighting. Her new location is right across from Outram Mrt station, which is super convenient. The class had three other attendees and lasted about 1.5 hours. I like that it was a small class size as she is able to give adequate attention to each person. Basically, she went through the theory of blush, contouring and highlighting. She taught us the basics such as knowing your undertones and skin tone. It is helpful for those who are new to makeup.

After the makeup class, naturally highlighted, contoured and blushed

 

After going through the basics, she did a demonstration on a student, which happened to be the lucky ME! She explained on which brush to use, and how to correctly apply the products (bronzer, blush and highlighter). After the demonstration, each person try to contour, apply blush and highlight their own faces. We highlighted, contoured and applied blush in two ways - one using powder products and another using cream products. The class also taught us on how to contour our nose to make it look slimmer. This was probably the most exciting part of the class for me. During the practical part of the class, she guided us step-by-step on the appropriate brush, color and amount to use. She attentively watched us and helped us whenever we are unsure. She will see how each student is doing, and will guide them on the appropriate application methods. One thing about Roseanne that I like is that she is approachable and non-judgmental. You do not have to be afraid to make mistakes in the class.

Without going into too much details on how the class is, I have to say that I did learn from this trial class. Even though I have seen Youtube videos and read numerous articles on the proper use of blush, bronzer and highlighter, it is a different experience when a live person is guiding me. I am glad I went for the makeup class! There is something new to learn from a professional makeup artist. Plus, I got to try new makeup products from Tarte, Marc Jacobs, Sephora, Ettusais and 13Brushes. I will definitely recommend Bloom By Roseanne makeup classes for those who want to a more practical way to the know-hows of makeup applications. I am thinking of signing up for more makeup classes from Bloom by Roseanne Tang. Please check out her website for more details. http://bloombyroseanne.com/pages/our-classes-workshops 

NEW: Stila Aqua Glow Watercolor Blush

Shimmering Lotus (Gold Pink)

                       Water Blossom (Pink Violet)      

~AG~

The newest product from Stila! How cool is this?!?

Stila Aqua Glow Watercolor Blush is a water-based gel blush that is highly pigmented. The water-based blush claims to hydrate and cool the skin. It sounds perfect for the super hot weather we are having Singapore now. 

The blush is available in 5 shades: Water Poppy (Red), Rosewater (Pale Pink), Water Lily (Rose Pink), Water Blossom (Pink Violet) and Shimmering Lotus (Goldy Pink)

The packaging is unique! The netted pot dispenser reminds me somewhat of CC Cushion. The blush claims to deliver a single splash of color per application. It has a luminous finish which creates a healthy glow on the cheeks. The blush claims to be waterproof and long-lasting. Sounds like a great product to add to your makeup routine for the summer! At US$26, it is reasonable priced product from Stila.                     

NEW BUY: Tarte Pin-Up Girl Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush Palette

 

 

 

 

 

~AG~

 



I was finally able to get my hands on this Tarte Pin-Up Girl Amazonian Clay Blush Palette. Thanks to my boyfriend for getting the last piece of blush palette from Sephora Great World City! The week before I had looked for this blush palette at several Sephora stores in Singapore such as at Ion, Takashimaya and Suntec City, but I was told that it was sold out. Desperately looking for it, I even contacted Tarte official to ask whether they were producing more of this blush palette. It was no longer available on tarte.com, Sephora.com, Ulta.com and Beauty.com. The blush palette was only available through re-seller, which I did not feel comfortable purchasing from.

Le t me tell you the funny story on how the Tarte blush palette found its way into my possession. My boyfriend and I happened to be at Great World City. At that time, I had lost any hope of finding the Tarte blush palette because the salesperson at Sephora had told me that it was sold-out citywide. I was shopping by myself while my boyfriend went to the ATM. After I was done shopping, I happened to see Sephora and decided to pop there to verify whether all the Tarte blush palette were truly sold out. While heading to the Tarte section, I noticed someone familiar at Sephora. Guess who it was? My boyfriend! He had unexpectedly gone to Sephora to also check whether the Tarte blush palette was available. What a funny coincidence! We both think so alike! Anyway, when I opened the Tarte drawer, there wasn't any blush palette left. But turns out, my boyfriend at the last piece of blush palette in his hands. I was so HAPPY and EXCITED! It was like a won a lottery or something :)

This blush palette contains 5 shades (Breathless, Embraced, Whimsy, Bashful and Irreplaceable) of the Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush for S$59. This is one of the best beauty purchases EVER! It is totally worth the S$59! I own a Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush and they are SO good. Their blushes are highly pigmented and long-lasting. So to own a blush palette from Tarte is a GREAT investment! I get to play around with the various blush shades, and wear them according to my mood. How FUN!

NARS Virtual Domination Cheek Palette

~AG~

I saw this on Sephora USA website. Sephora NARS Virtual Domination Cheek Palette

I so WANT this!! Three blushes, one highlighting shade and one bronzer all for US$65. I am a big fan of NARS blushes and bronzer, and this cheek palette is a steal. It consists of : Miss Liberty Highlighting Blush Powder, Sex Fantasy (pale pink), Deep Throat (sheer peach), Final Cut (coral) and Laguna Bronzing powder. I wish that they sell it at Sephora or NARS counter in Singapore. I will go check it out this weekend :)

NEW: Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll Kiss & Blush Lips & Cheeks

~AG~

I saw this newest YSL product at their store at Wisma Atria, Singapore. A cheek & lip tint with a lipgloss applicator. Its tiny size fits in the palm of my hands. Available in 12 shades, in a wide range of pinks, corals and reds.  It retails for USD $40 (~SGD $50). I absolutely love the packaging. It looks elegant and very feminine. A great product to have in your travel makeup case since it works as a cheek and lip stain. 

An air-whipped, two-in-one mousse formula for lips and cheeks. 
Highlight lips and cheeks with ultrablendable color and an edgy baby doll attitude. Yves Saint Laurent’s whipped mousse highlights lips and cheeks with a sensual, soft matte finish.

REVIEW: NARS Mini Blush & Bronzer Duo

~AG~ 

NARS Mini Blush & Bronzer duo is my new favorite cheek product. Its small packaging (0.17 oz) fits easily on the palm of my hand, which makes it convenient for traveling. The duo consists of the the blush shade, Orgasm, and bronzer shade, Laguna.

Laguna is a great shade for contouring. I use it on the sides of my foreheads and on the jawline. It might look too dark on the palette, but it looks just nice on my NC 30 skin. The shade does not have much red or orange undertones. Red or orange undertones can look unflattering on fair to medium skin tones. Plus, Laguna does not create a “dirty” look effect after it oxidizes, which some bronzer tends to do.

Orgasm gives a nice pink-peach glow. It has bits of gold shimmer which helps warm up the skin tone. I like the fact that the shimmers are not too flashy. It is a great everyday cheek color that looks very natural.

Nars blush & bronzer have great pigmentation and staying power. You only need a little product for it to show up on your skin. The colors stayed on well on my face - for more than 5 hours.

At US$24, it is a great beauty purchase. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a great blush and bronzer to use everyday. It is a great way to try Nars popular blush and bronzer.