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: Sephora Members Sale

~AG~

Sephora was having 20% for its members last week. It created the perfect opportunity for us to stock up on some beauty products. 

AG Purchase

Fenty Beauty Bomb Baby Mini Lip and Face Set (S$23)
Two of Fenty Beauty's bestseller in a mini set. Their universal lip luminizer, Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glow. The peach champagne Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter

 

Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment mini (S$25)
This activated charcoal mask is designed for those with oily and combination skin. It supposedly helps to clear clogged pores and minimizes pores. What is special about Glamglow Supermud is that it contains 6 acids: glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, pyruvic acid, and tartaric acid. 

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder mini (S$18) 
This ultra-refined mini powder formulated with light-reflecting particles to blur imperfections.
This powder blurs the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles for an airbrushed finish.  

MG Purchase

Kora Organics Turmeric 2-in-1 Brightening & Exfoliating Mask (S$68)
A 2-in-1 facial exfoliating mask that is designed to brighten and support skin cell renewal. It is a gentle alternative to AHAs or acid based glycols.  

Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask (S$95)
This wash-off mask was highly recommended by a friend. She mentioned that this mask will create a noticeable brightening effect after use. This anti-aging mask contains Japanese beautyberry that is high in antioxidants.

Dr GL Restore Gel Mask mini (S$18)
This skincare product is packed with antioxidant, anti inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients to soothe skin. It can be used as a mask or a gel moisturizer to counteract redness, irritation or dryness.

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: Becca Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter in Opal

~AG~

Heard about Becca Cosmetics many years ago from famous makeup artist, Lisa Eldridge. She was a big fan of their Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid Highlighter. When Becca Cosmetics introduced the Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed, I knew I had to get my hands on it. Bought it last year when I was in the States from Sephora for USD 38 (S$55). The Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed comes in 10 shades. The shade I selected was Opal which is a golden bronze. Since I have a warm undertone, Opal's golden shade matches my skintone well. 

 

The shimmers on this pressed powder highlighter are highly reflective and creates an healthy glow. The powder has a smooth texture that is not powdery. I use the Ecotools Deluxe Fan Brush to apply Becca Cosmetics Pressed Highlighter. I apply the highlighter to the top of my cheeks and the bridge of the nose. A light hand is recommended to apply the highlighter, as too much of the powder will make the face looks shiny. To create a beautiful glow, I first apply Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect to add some rosy color and then highlight the skin with Becca Cosmetics Pressed Highlighter. 

I will definitely recommend Becca Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter as it is highly pigmented and creates a beautiful natural glow. As this product comes in 10 various shades, you can select the one that is most suitable to your skin tone. This Becca Pressed Highlighter can lasts a long time as you only need a little product to highlight the skin.

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: Sephora Haul

~AG~

Sephora, Sephora, Sephora!
This time around, I was rather selective on purchasing products from Sephora.com. Let me let you in on a secret. I discovered that the Shilla Duty Free priced their products very competitively. Often it is cheaper to buy cosmetics there than in Sephora USA. The only two products I bought from Sephora.com were:

1) Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer (US$28) in Light Medium
This concealer was recommended by the saleslady at the Sephora store. After trying a few other concealers for my under eye areas, we concluded that Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer works well for my dry under eye area. Most importantly, the shade Light Medium matched well with my skin tone.
2) Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed (US$38) in Opal
This popular highlighter by Becca has been on my wish list for a long time! Lisa Eldridge, the wonderful makeup artist, first talked about this powder highlighter on her Youtube videos many years ago. 

The other items on my cart were birthday gift and point redemption. I <3 free stuff! Who doesn't?
Redemption of 500 Sephora points for Yves Saint Laurent YSL Covetable Couture Beauty Icons. 
It includes mini-sized versions of: Mascara Volume Effect Faux Cils, Touche Eclat Blur Primer, Volutpe Tint-in-Oil and Black Opium Eau De Parfum

Redemption of Birthday Gift which was Fresh Soy Face Cleanser and Rose Face Mask. 

This Day-of-Soiree Swag Sample Bags was also complimentary from Sephora USA. It is their Holiday Sample Bags that contains mini version of beauty products. The one I received included:

Make Up for Ever Artist Rouge Lipstick in C211, Cover Fx Custom Enhancer Drops in Moonlight, Sephora Collection Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover, Origins Modern Friction Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion, Dr Jart+ Every Sun Day UV Sun Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 30, Erno Laszlo Timeless Skin System Cleansing Duo (Sensitive Skin Duo) - Sensitive Cleansing Oil and Sensitive Cleansing Bar,  Chloé Chloe Eau de Parfum and Elizabeth and James Nirvana White

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. 

NEW BUY: Innisfree Face Designing Duo #2 (Evening Sunset)

Face Designing Duo #2 (Evening Sunset)

~AG~
While browsing through the blush section of an innisfree store in Seoul, Korea, I noticed this contouring powder. I forgot to take note of the price, but it is retailing for S$20 on innisfreeworld.com. There were only two shades available in store. Decided to go for shade #2 (evening sunset) because #1 (afternoon delight) was too light. 

A shading & highlighting duo that emphasizes the contours of the face with natural shading colors 
1. The face is fully dimensional and has a healthy shine 2. Adheres softly to the face without being powdery 3. Incorporates vivid colors in your makeup that lasts all day

Picture Credits: innisfreeworld.com

Cannot wait to try this shading product! Hope it works well to contour my face. Stay tuned for my review of Innisfree Face Designing Duo.

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 

REVIEW: YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch

~AG~

This iconic YSL Touche Éclat Radiant Touch costs me USD $41. While browsing through the Macy's Beauty department, I decided to pick this up. It is expensive for such as small item but it is supposedly a miracle product. Previously, I have tried a similar product, the Dior Skin Flash. However, it was not a must-have item in my makeup collection. The reason I am trying this product is because sometimes I need a more brightening effect for my dark circles. The current concealer that I am using, Bobbi Brown concealer, provides coverage but does not illuminate the undereye area. Plus, its click pen/brush packaging makes it a convenient product to have for on-the-go.

A trick that the YSL sales assistant told me about click pen packaging. With a new click pen, it takes ages for the product to come out initially. However, instead of clicking the pen countless time and waiting patiently for the product to come out, she said a few gentle knock/tap to the side of the pen will allow the product to come out more quickly. When the YSL Touche Éclat Radiant Touch is being "resistant", I would tap the side of the pen a few times and soon the product will emerge.

This product provide little coverage for my severe dark circles. I only use it on days when I am in a hurry or when I don't feel like using much makeup. It is easy to use because you do not need a separate concealer brush to apply it.

Left under eye with YSL Touche Eclat. Right under without. It does brighten the eye area but does not fully conceal my severe dark circles.

One thing I learnt from using this product is that it is NOT a concealer. To get a brightening effect under the eye, first, conceal dark circles with a concealer and then layer it with Touche Éclat Radiant Touch, or vice versa. This create a soft and healthy effect.

You can also use YSL Touche Éclat Radiant Touch for highlighting your face. I tried doing this several times but I find that this shade does not work well. It is too light for highlighting the facial features.

In conclusion, YSL Touche Éclat Radiant Touch is a not must-have makeup item in my beauty book. It is not worth that money. I rather pay that amount for my favourite concealer, Cle de Peau Beaute concealer or Bobbi Brown Corrector & Concealer. Even though it is a highlighting product, it does not significantly help brighten my under eye areas. Also, I cannot use it to highlight my cheek bones or other areas, the shade is not illuminating enough. Overall, I would not re-purchase this product.

Benefit Cosmetics Cheeky Sweet Spot O' Blushes

~AG~

This cheek palette consists of:

• Dandelion Brightening Face Powder (Pale Pink highlighter)
• Belle Bamba 3D Brightening Pink Face Powder (Watermelon Pink)
• Sugarbomb Sugar Rush Flush Face Powder (Peach, Rose, Shimmering Pink & Soft Plum)
• Hoola Bronzing Powder
• Coralista A Rio Pleasure Face Powder (Coral)
• Rockateur Famously Provocative Cheek Powder (Rose gold)
• Watt's Up! Soft Focus Highlighter

This cheek palette retails on Sephora USA website for US$36. This is such an affordable way to try Benefit Cosmetics famous boxed powders. A full-sized Hoola Bronzing Powder costs US$28. The full-sized Watt's Up! costs US$30. If I were in the States, I will buy it online asap. I own a full-size of the Sugarbomb Face Powder and it is pretty good. Sugarbomb creates a flattering glow to my cheeks. My younger sister, MG, own a full-size Coralista Face Powder. I have tried it on several occasions and I will have to say that the powder is finely milled. Coralista is rather pigmented, and the shimmery bits are not too obvious. Benefit Cosmetics Boxed Powders are their bestsellers.

 

FYI, I tried looking for this set in Sephora Singapore but it was unavailable :(

Benefit Cosmetics, please bring this set to Singapore soon!!

REVIEW: Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Sheer Illuminating Fluid

~AG~

Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Sheer Illuminating Fluid (USD$48) comes in only one shade  Sunkissed. The shade is a warm golden bronze. I bought it at a Chanel's beauty event at Macy's on September 2012. 

Yes, it has been a while since I've had this product. I used it quite frequently when I first bought it. But ever since I moved to Singapore in November 2012, I did not touch the product. That being because Singapore has a humid climate and I was afraid that this illuminating fluid will make my skin too shiny. Plus, my skin became ultra sensitive ever since I came back to Singapore. I was nervous of putting it on my cheeks area where I am most prone to redness and adverse reaction. I was searching for a highlighter that is not shimmery or too bronzed. This has light-reflective pigments that gives your skin a nice healthy glow. The illuminating pigments are not too shimmery for everyday use.

The texture of the product is like a liquid foundation, so I apply it to my cheekbones and bridge of my nose using a foundation brush. It blends easily into my skin and sets rather quickly (~5 seconds). This product stays on all day, and does not cause my face to look oily. It has become a great addition to my makeup routine because it brightens my whole face.


Nowadays, I seldom use blush because I find it too pink for my "Retin-A glow" skin. So I use this as a blush, applying it on the apple of my cheeks and then use NARS Laguna bronzer on the hollows of my cheekbones.  

My skin is rather sensitive to cream blush or tints so I was afraid this would cause breakouts. But after using it for over a week, my skin has not had any adverse reactions.

The only thing I don’t like about this product is the packaging. Since it comes in a glass jar with a twist cap, it would be a difficult product to travel with. I would have preferred it if the product came with a pump.

I will definitely recommend this product. It can be used both as a bronzer and highlighter.

Sephora Beauty Insider Birthday Treat

~AG~

A mini Watt's Up and They're Real! mascara from Sephora USA for my birthday. Weee!! I <3 freebies!