Video: Friday is for getting that gorgeous Angelina Jolie look

It is entirely possible that I have a slight crush on Angelina Jolie. She's gorgeous, adopts needy children, does charity work for the UN, and is a strong woman who's been there, done that, grown up and moved on. Also her makeup is to die for. The following video by MakeupGeek reproduces a look a really love. I haven't managed to recreate it yet but hey I just learnt to use false eyelashesw. Baby steps!

What the - Shills Bubble Magic PEEING??

It's hard to think of a worse typo than one like this, on a zillion bottles, worldwide. >_<

For the record though it's RM49.90, and it along with other Shills products, can be bought at a store near the Midvalley-Gardens bridge on the Midvalley side of things. The shop's called "somethinginchinese-Queen" if that helps!

Duped: Benefit's 10 Highlighter/ Bronzer Duo (Again)

This is the second Benefit 10 dupe featured on So Loverly! You can read all about the first one here and Kahani's rave on the real deal here

I stumbled upon the new Australis Duo Powders a few days ago and was thinking, "Hmm... This looks familiar... " when lightbulbs started going off in my head.

"NARS Blush and Bronzing Duos! Eh, no... The NARS powders are in separate pans and e.l.f. does their dupe."

Then I got it.

"Benefit's 10!"

So smack me and call me a dodo, it took me that long to figure it out. The square compact, the dual toned powder and the large brush would have had anyone else squealing "DUPE" within 3 seconds. Even the application instructions are similar to Benefit's sexy sweep.

I have only checked these out at Target but from what i have seen so far, the Australis Powder Duos seems a lot more travel-friendly from Benefit's 10. The packaging isn't as pretty as Benefit's 10 as it comes in a plain black square, palm-sized plastic compact. But it seems to be pretty sturdy with a good clip and there are two compartments -- one for the brush and another for the powder -- and a mirror.

A point in the Australis Duo's favour is that this comes in 3 different shades (from left to right in the picture): Sunkissed Glimmer, Rosy Bronze and Sunkissed Gold. Sunkisser Glimmer is more of a highlighter/ bronzer duo whilst the other two are blush/ bronzer duos. I would recommend Sunkissed Glimmer for the really fair, Sunkissed Gold for those with fair to light/ medium tones and Rosy Bronze for darker skin tones. I am personally lemming for Rosy Bronze as a blush/ bronzer and Sunkissed Gold as a highlighter/ bronzer.

I don't have swatches of these (lighting in Target is horrible!) but the powder duos seems to be rather smooth and pigmented with a light shimmery finish. I was pleased to see that it was pretty-discrete shimmery, not in-your-face-disco-ball shimmery.

These would be lovely products for the summer and I think Australis made a mistake by not launching them earlier in the year. However, this doesn't seem to have affected sales as Sunkissed Glimmer was completely sold out when I spotted these the other day.

I haven't had the chance to try Benefit's 10 so I can't say for sure how well these two products compare in quality. Judging from the packaging (travel-friendly packaging is always a big point for me), variety and price, I think the Australis Powder Duo wins out for me. Instead of spending AUD 49, I could buy all 3 duos and have change for a movie.

The Australis Powder Duos is a Target exclusive product so hop over to your nearest Target and check it out!

Quick and easy natural French Mani for short nails

This French manicure only took me 30 minutes, including drying time. No muss, no fuss, and only a slight difficulty in doing the right hand with the left. Some practice and I can probably knock the time down to 20 mins!

This really is only for pretty short nails as it gets a whole lot tougher once your nails are longer. You will need:

Etude White Mini French - RM7.90
The Face Shop Pink Base Coat - RM10.90
The Face Shop Top Coat - RM10.90

Instructions

1. Etude House's French White has a very thin brush that makes it perfect for quickly and easily painting a very thin line. Not so good once the line gets thicker. So on your short nails, paint a thin line over your nail tips. Let dry.

2.Paint two coats of the pink base coat. Letting nails dry thoroughly between coats.

3.Paint one layer of the top coat. Let dry and flaunt your French nails!

4.If you paint another layer of top coat after 3 days the nails should last the week. More coats make your nails blue though.

More tips

Have trouble sitting still while your nails a drying? Paint while watching TV! I always do. :)

For more even layers without bubbles make sure the fan is off. Air cond is ok, but fan is a killer.

Using only the base coat is a good way to give your nails a break while still keeping them pretty. It's gentler on nails than nail polish.

Warehouse Sales and Promotions Alert!

It's raining warehouse sales! My poor pocket... I vill be stronk! I vill NOT go! *sings I vill not be moved* But temptation shared is temptation doubled soooo...

27-30 May: Metrojaya Branded Cosmetics and Fragrances Promotion

28-30 May: Kose Warehouse Sale

29-30 May: Kanebo Warehouse Sale

12-13 June: Fragrance Warehouse Clearance

22 May - 14 June: The Body Shop Sale

21 May - 21 June: Watson's Mid-Year Sale

Review & Rave: Clairol Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship

Over a year ago I read a review of this product on 15 Min Beauty. Raspberry? Volume? Cheap? Long hair friendly? Me want!

But this entire range was not available in London where I was living at the time. When I returned to Malaysia my heart did flipflops when I saw this range on the shelf. But damn me if the brought in every other product BUT the only one I wanted! Argh!

So when I saw this in Beijing, I finally ended my quest for it. Of course now I went all the way to a foreign country to buy it, it becomes avaliable in Malaysia. Thank goodness I really like it. BUT I just checked it out up close and personal, and the Malaysian shampoo is cloudy pink, not clear green, although the packaging is identical. So I'm not sure if it will perform the same. =(

Scent
Odd as it sounds the main selling point plugged by Clairol for this range of haircare products is the scent. And it really is worth mentioning.

Long Term Relationship (LTR) smells of raspberries. Sadly not fresh, tart and juicy raspberries which is what I hoped for the scent is actually quite sweet and well... Teenie bopper. I'm slightly ashamed to admit that I actually really like it. *blushes*

The shampoo smells of raspberry soda - slightly chemical but also sparkling and refreshing. The conditioner is scented exactly like a berry smoothie. I prefer it slightly but both products compliment each other really well.

The scent lasts in my hair all day. Not so strong that it messes with my fragrance, but present enough that I catch myself happily sniffing my hair. Mmm...happy scent! :D

Performance
Thank goodness it's not just a pretty scent. It works really well too! I find the shampoo is more drying than. Dove's Hair Fall Therapy, but the conditioner is more moisturising to compensate.

After a week's use my hair is shiny, sleek, volumnised, and raspberry scented - did I mention the raspberry scent?

Some tips though. Because the shamp is a little drying, don't leave it for too long in your hair unless it's oily. And beacuse the condi is heavy don't use it above the nape of your neck unless your hair is dry.

I leave the shamp to sit on my oily scalp a bit before washing the rest and quickly rinsing it out. And I never apply the condi higher than the nape of my neck. This leads to happy, shiny, bouncy hair!

Conclusion
LTR shamp and condi retails at about RM8.90 for 160ml and RM14.90 for 300ml each which is a great price for such an awesome product.

I admit I have the nagging - and perhaps slightly misguided feeling - that Dove is better for my hair in the ong term. I have no proof, I just feel that way. But the truth is LTR has worked great and the scent makes me smile in the morning. So I will repurchase and swap between it and Dove.

There's also a hair mask available which I now want!

Monday's Beauty Bits: Eli's Beauty Profile + Pic!

Yes ladies you finally get a glimpse of our beloved Australian Correspondent, Eli! Gorgeous isn't she? I didn't dare put the pic up nice and big for fear she'd freak!

Eli's Beauty Profile

Age: 25
Skin type: Oily-dry
Main problems: Large pores, acne scars, dark circles, fine lines, uneven texture
No-no ingredients: Olive oil, Jojoba oil, Shea butter
HG ingredients: AHA and BHA

Skincare:
Eye and Lip Makeup Remover: Vichy Micellar Cleansing Solution, Lancome Bifacil, Vaseline
Cleanser: Cetaphil
Toner: Vichy Eau Thermal Water
Mask: Himalaya Herbals Neem Mask, Clinique Moisture Surge Moisturiser
Serum: Clinique Turnaround Concentrate
Moisturiser (Day & Night): Clinique Moisture Surge Moisturiser
Sunscreen: Cancer Council Everyday Sunscreen SPF 30+; Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Eye Contour Care Ultra Protection SPF 30, Clarins UV Protection SPF 40

Colours
Foundations:
Spring/Winter: Bobbi Brown in Beige 3.5 and ZA Powder Foundation in #22
Summer/Autumn: Bobbi Brown in Natural Beige 4.5 and ZA Powder Foundation in #23 and #24
Favourite blush colours are: Corals and red-browns
Favourite eyeshadow colours are: Neutral browns and earth tones
Favourite eyeliner colours are: Black, brown and gunmetal grey

Review: Artiste Manicare Skunk Brush

I love and adore my MAC #187 to bits. It does such a wonderful job of applying and buffing my BB cream and liquid foundations to an air-brushed finish, I want to marry it and have little skunk brush babies named Flower. (Don’t tell my boyfriend I said that)

Anyway, the point I am making here is that I really, really, really like my MAC skunk brush and was seriously thinking of getting a second #187 for my cream blushes. The idea of spending another AUD85 stopped me in my tracks though so I had a poke around Australia for other skunk brush alternatives (sadly, we don’t have an Etude House outlet or I would have got this) and ended up getting a dupe from Artiste Manicare instead.

As you can see, the Manicare version (top) is a slightly stubbier version of the #187. Both brush heads are about the same size in length and fluffiness – I can’t tell the which is which in the second picture but I think the Manicare brush is the one on the left as it looks whiter.

Let’s start with the cons of the Artiste Manicare stippling brush.

Cons
First off, the bristles bleed. It took me about 5 washes to make sure that all of the excess dye had run off and just to be doubly sure, I washed it twice more.

Secondly, the brush sheds like a sheepdog in the summer. It sheds when I wash it, it sheds when I dab the tips into my blush and it sheds when I apply blush to my cheeks. I am constantly picking black bristles off my cheeks and out of my cream blushers; it gets pretty darn annoying.

I tested this brush for softness on the back of my hand before I bought it but as it turns out, my facial skin is a lot more sensitive than I thought. This brush is scratchy! It makes me wince a little each time I use it on my cheeks. I haven’t dared to try and use this brush for applying BB cream as I bet my skin would start making banshee-like wails if I did.

Pros
The slightly shorter handle makes this brush a lot more travel-friendly and the price tag of AUD17.95 – about a fifth of a MAC #187 so you will still have change for gum from a twenty – makes me a lot less paranoid about throwing this little guy around my travel bag or worrying that I am going to drop it down the loo by mistake.

As this dupe is made with synthetic bristles, it thankfully does not smell like goat. My only grouse with the original #187 was the strong goat smell – it reminded me of childhood weekends spent getting into trouble on my grandparents’ farm.

(Yes, I had a typical budak kampung upbringing where my cousins and I chased chickens, flew kites, played in paddy fields, splashed around in rivers and on one occasion, got chased by water buffaloes. I still have no idea how I went from playing in the mud to playing with lipstick)

Despite the scratchiness, this brush does get the job done. It picks up blushes well – both cream and powder – and does a pretty good job of stippling and blending. As the synthetic bristles are a little stiffer than the #187, I dare say it does a slightly better job at picking up cream blushers as there is less “give”.

Verdict
I guess this isn’t too shabby if you want a stippling brush and can’t afford or justify spending so much money on a MAC #187. The Manicare option is very much more affordable (think of what you can do with the remaining AUD64.05!) and it does do a pretty decent job. The only bones I have to pick with this brush is the scratchiness and the continuous shedding; both of which you can live with if you have slightly tougher skin than me and are a lot less grouchy.

You can buy Artiste Manicare brushes from most Priceline, Myers and Target outlets. I have not checked David Jones so I am not sure about that. Does anyone know where else you can pick up Manicare brushes in Australia?

Btw, photo credits for that unbearably adorable baby skunk picture at the start of my post goes to LadiesWhoKill.

Video: Friday is for a clear how-to on eyeshadow

This video made me think, "WHY hasn't anyone ever explained it so clearly before?" While I have actually figured this out myself through trial and error, I don't believe anyone not Bobbi Brown, not Sonia Kashuk, and certainly not my mom ever put it so well!

Budget beauty: Silky Girl Lash Prism Mascara

When I got a tube of SG Lash Prism in black, I'll admit I regarded it with trepidation. What if it turned me into a racoon? What if it stung my eyes and caused what few lashes I had to fall out? But I finally screwed up the guts to try it and by jingo, I was pleasantly surprised! It lenghtened, defined, and even had fibres in it to bump up the volume and length of my lashes. No stinging, no racoon eyes.

Curious about the price, I went to an SG counter to check it out. It was RM13.90. And it came in blue, brown and purple. Thrilled I snapped up a tube of purple mascara just for fun.

Colours
You really can see that the mascara is purple - but it's not too alarming on my lashes. I'm not entirely sure what I'll do with the purple since I much prefer the definition provided by black (and it is VERY black) but it was fun to indulge my curiosity so affordably.

(L) Purple & (R) Black

Brush
The brush may be the best part of the mascara. As you can see it resembles rimmel's sexy curves mascara in shape. Itks nicely dense and separates lashes well applying the formula evenly without clumps. It's also not too big, which is nice for small chinese eyes. ;)

Formula
As mentioned earlier, it really isn't bad. But of course at this price, it isn't perfect either. The difference it makes isn't dramatic so it's a good everyday mascara. It also feels rather wet and takes awhile to dry.

Although the formula claims to be waterproof I don't really find it so. It can smudge if I tear up from yawning or laughing. Crying would probably result in two black, or purple, rivulets down my face.

Conclusion
If I'm short up for cash, or needed to buy a mascara while on a trip, this is an excellent deal. Also if you're tempted to give coloured mascaras a go, this makes for an affordable experiment. Definitely worth a look!

Sweet stains: Etude House Dear Darling Lip Tint in Shade 01

Yes, I spent a nice amount of time mocking the ridiculous name and admiring the pretty packaging. But what really tempted me was the price - at RM22.90 it is by far the most affordable tint I've ever come across.

So, how does it compare?

The best description I can give is that it seems to be a more intense version of The Body Shop's lip & cheek stain. More pigmented and with a thicker gel formula, even it's taste and scent is similar but stronger. Euch! Like strong chemically sweet cough mixture. Not pleasant, but you get over it.

Colour
This shade is the coolest red out of 3 choices. It is a blue, rosy, almost pinky red. Shade 02 is the most neutral red, and shade 03 is scarily orange.

On the lips it is very pigmented:

One Coat

Two Coats

As you can see this is not a colour I'd recommend for girls still terrified by reds!

Wear
One thing I like about this stain is that it's thick formula makes it feel more moisturising than other stains. Plus, it doesn't settle as much into lip-lines making it very lip-friendly.

As it's not formulated for cheeks, and because it is so pigmented I've never had the guts to try it on my cheeks. If anyone has, do share!

Overall, this stain is very long-lasting, but becuase it's so pigmented it doesn't fade evenly and you can see that the centre of your lips is lighter than the rest after a meal. Not really a look a favour! Fortunately it's easy to tote around and touch up.

It also washes off fairly easily with soap and water - it's the middle swatch in the photo above.

Conclusion
At the price it's worth checking out for a portable, BRIGHT lipstain. Also if you're interested in other colours, this stain does have three different shades, and I believe Etude has a few other stains in different packaging. I think I've seen a bright pink one in Benetint-like packaging. But once again, if you're not into brightly stained lips, better give this one a miss.

Channeling Star Trek with the help of Silk Naturals Kisser Slicker in Bloom

When I first swiped on Silk Natural's Kisser Slicker in Bloom I was actually really disappointed. The colour that looked so pretty on the tube, was a very cool very very light pink on me. So light I didn't know how I was to use it.

Until I watched the latest Star Trek film that is. I was BLOWN away by the incredible dialogue, story-line, screenplay, cast... and the updated 60's-inspired feel to everything. From the ship-design to the actor's makeup the movie never missed a beat. It managed to be authentic, and 60's without for a moment being outdated or old-fogey. Awesome.

I was particularly taken with the makeup sported by Nyota Uhura, played by Zoe Saldana. I loved the clean yet feminine look created by her winged eyeliner and cool pink (but not frosty!) lipstick. So I had the black eyeliner... where was I to get the cool pink... ahhhh... *lightbulb appears with a ting!*

Bloom lipstick is perfect for an updated 60's inspired look. It's glossy not frosty, very very cool pale pink that's pigmented enough to cover up my lip's natural colour.

Swatches courtesy of Silk Naturals

I chose a very very light dusting of my coolest pink blush (I think it was Silk Naturals Mineral Blush in Charming) coupled with some contouring with Daiso's Nose Shadow under my cheekbones.

The one fly in my honey was my winged eyeliner - or lack of it. I have GOT to work on the flick. I'm also unsure if there's any point to it. Since any flicks I did, however enthusiastic (ok I made sure I stopped short of Amy Winehouse) were hidden by my Chinese eyes. Arrrgh! Nevermind if at first you don't succeed.... go for bigger wings.

So what do you girls think? And any tip on achieving the coveted winged eyeliner on scrunched up eyes?

For a great interview with the makeup aritist behind Star Trek, Mindy Hall (and for picture credit, I stole her pic), go here! I read it, and now I really want the Shiseido liner, maybe it will help me flick! I also feel better that even the makeup artists had difficulty achieving that perfect eyeliner on everyone.

Monday's Beauty Bits: Syen's Beauty Profile

Heya girls, Kahani started this skin profile which I think is great so you girls can get even more acquainted with our skin types, and product or colour preferences. We'll update it as we go along, especially if we add new HG products to our daily routine. So here's mine!

Syen's Beauty Profile

Age:26
Skin type: Combi-Oily, prone to blemishes, but has been improving.
Main problems: Oily skin, pimple-prone especially around the chin, scars, growing eyebags.
No-no ingredients: Err... Haven't particularly paid attention here.
HG ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, Neem.

Skincare
Cleanser: Johnson & Johnson's Head to Toe, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Himalaya Herbals Gentle Face Wash Cream.
Makeup Remover: MAC Cleanse Off Oil/Tranquil, ~H20+ Face Oasis Cleansing Water, Kanebo Freshel White C Cleaning Oil. (Yes, I have LOTS of cleansers which I use according to whatever I'm in the mood for.)
Scrub: Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub
Mask: Himalaya Herbals Neem Face Pack
Serum: Cellnique / B'Liv Pro-Sebum Gel
Treatment: Differin, Aknemycin Plus
Moisturiser (Day): I don't use moisturiser for day if I'm in Malaysia. 
Moisturiser (Night): ~H2O+ Face Oasis or Clinique DDM Gel (Face Oasis for more hydration)
Sunscreen: Biore UV Perfect Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Colours
Foundations: ZA Two-way foundation in #22, MAC in NC25.
Favourite blush colours: Peachy, corals, peachy-pinks, pinks.
Favourite eyeshadow colours: Browns, Taupe, Grey, Silver, Gold, Copper, Greens.
Favourite lipstick/gloss colours: Corals, peach, nudes, mauves, browns, brown-pinks.

Video: Friday is for Fantastic! Panacea81 has her own makeup line!

This is a real coup for us beauty bloggers, after all aren't we just a degree away from the beauty youtubers? This lovely Irish lass has been awarded her own makeup line! It's called Lauren Luke (that's her real name) and is looks lovely. I'm SO PROUD of you Lauren, woo hoo! Just watch her excitement as she shows off her new collection and squeal along with her.

DIY Beauty: My Guilt Free Chocolate Fix

Kahani refuses to post the cockroach facial video I sent her so I am forced to settle for something a little more mundane. *sigh*

We all like chocolate, yes? Milk, white, dark… I am partial to dark chocolate myself. A bit of chocolate keeps me happy and since cocoa contains anti-oxidants, it alleviates the guilt a leeetle bit. However, eating too much of it does make my tummy feel a little sick and unhealthy. So when I found a DIY recipe for a chocolate face mask, I jumped for joy. A guilt free chocolate fix!

And there is something terribly indulgent in the idea of slathering chocolate all over one's self.

I have been using this mask for the past few months. It works a treat during summer, leaving my skin is dewy all day, but not so well during winter as the dry and cold air is zapping moisture out of me. This is definitely a HG summer mask for me.

I decided to post this recipe in the form of a collage. It makes uploading so much easier and you can just copy the image to your desktop for easy reference. Here goes:

You can substitute the milk with yogurt instead. It's easier to mix with the cocoa powder and the lactic acid in the yogurt leaves my skin feeling softer compared to using milk.

Tip: One of the things I do while using a DIY mask is to cover my face with cling wrap. After I poke eye and breathing holes in it first, of course. Dying for the cause of beauty is not the way I want to go.

Using cling wrap means that the mask doesn't dry up, it sinks in better and I can shower with a face mask on. I get added oomph as the heat from the hot water and the cling wrap creates a sauna like effect which means I step out of the shower with baby soft skin. And I don't have to wait out the full 15 minutes before washing the mask off.

Do not let your neighbours, family members or significant other see you wearing cling wrap though. My sister once screamed the place down and told me to sleep with garlic and a crucifix in case Chucky came to claim me for a bride.

Hot to tote: I Nuovi Cream blushes, the PERFECT blush on the go!

"Perfect" may seem a little over the top, but I promise I cannot rave enough about these little tubes of joy. They have single-handedly ended my quest for the "perfect-on-the-go" blush, and helped sooth the wounds of my failure with Etude House's Peach Cheek Blush. (It's gone to a better place where it is more appreciated!)

But it's a CREAM blush, you screech in harpy-tones. How can anyone use it during the day? Won't it combine with powder to form pinky icing? Well here's the glory of this blush. It's a magical formula (I suspect silicone - but so far no breakouts!) that can be used over freshly applied powder. I kid you not! Unlike most cream blushes, these feel dry (not sticky!) and smooth out easily with the lightest of touches.

Packaging
When you plan to tote something around, packaging is important. And these tubes are nice and sturdy - highly unlikely to rupture and go boom in your bag. Also although they pack 10g of product they're not in the least bulky - about the size and shape of a chubby tube of gloss.

They have lip-gloss like openings, the slanted tip really is rather pointless, but the nice small hole makes for easy control. Also, the dry and non-oozy texture of the blush makes it easy to control. Which is good. Since you only need the smidgiest of smidges.

See that below? That's too much for both cheeks. It has to be smidgier. (Yes I invented new tenses. Blogger's license!)

Colours
I own the blushes in two shades: Urbanista (top swatch) is a neutral-based pink that goes with just about any look, and Dolly a fresh coral shade that goes well with warmer looks and imparts a really lovely glow. I received Urbanista (to my squealy delight) in the gift-bag each of us received at the I Nuovi blogger event, and I bought Dolly recently thanks to Connie's temptation inspiring review at 40% off during the sale.

The top swatch is Urabanista and the bottom one is Dolly. As you can see they have a faint sheen - not quite a shimmer - but it makes for a lovely glowy look.

And oh I should add that the blushes are scented with Lavender - which I love, but if you dislike the scent you may not dig these blushes. It is quite noticeable when you're applying it - but fades quickly.

Application
As mentioned earlier you can use this over powder, or liquid foundation, or just about anything! The formula spreads so easily that you don't have to rub it out and muss your base makeup.

And just as proof, here's me sporting Dolly applied immediately after a dusting of MAC blot.

You really do need a tiny amount. I just touch my finger to the opening, give the tube a little squeeze until the product touches my finger. That dot is really all you need. If you want more pinky-goodness, just go back for another round.

Even if you over-apply don't worry it won't give you clown cheeks. Take the time to blend it out, dust powder over and you'll just be a tad glowier than usual.

Conclusion
Each blush retails at RM60 each. I'm not sure if I'll repurchase, simply because with the tiny amount needed I don't think I'll ever see the end of a tube. But at present they are both must-haves in my purse.

MAC Double Dazzle Haul

So remember I said about a week or so back that MAC Double Dazzle had finally arrived and how I was tempted to get 4 of them? (Sorry for the late write up, I hope they're still well-stocked.)

Guess what? I totally caved, and got ALL the four I wanted. But I was fortunate enough that I didn't have to pay full price, many thanks to Kahani (thanks for your gift voucher dearie!). =P

So read on for more piccies and swatches.

The haul. *happiness* =D

The four dazzlers I got.

Without flash: (L-R)Love Alert, Date Night, Smile and Baby Sparks.

With flash:(L-R)Love Alert, Date Night, Smile and Baby Sparks.

Aren't they uber dazzling? Ooooh.. I can't wait to use them for a glam night out. Smile is totally me, and Baby Sparks screams cute and safe. But I'm also at a stage to try out bolder colours, hence Love Alert and Date Night.

And just a reminder, they are really sticky. But for their shimmer and dazzle-ness, I'm willing to make exceptions.

And oh, they they cost RM80 each, which should have totalled RM320. But with the voucher, it was only RM220! How cool is that! =D *woohoo*

So anyone gonna run to MAC for them? Or have you already?

Spotted: New Silky Girl Eyeshadow Quad looks strangely familiar...

Does this remind of you any other brand? Say... one that starts with an R?

I spotted this at Bangsar Village's Grocer and thought it looked rather nice. Thing is, no testers, so I couldn't swatch. And no prices. Actually they had put it in with the Revlon Quads (which are RM45) so it looks like they got mixed up too!

Anyone else seen this? Tried it out? I'm curious!

They had lots of other colours but this green one really caught my eye.

Monday's Beauty Bits: Kahani's Beauty Profile

Hey Ladies,

I thought just for the record it would help blog readers if you had a better idea of our respective skin-types and have a reference of what colours, ingredients do and don't work for us.

I'll be linking the profiles as they're posted to the "About Me" section of the blog. If you'd like to know anything that hasn't been mentioned, please feel free to ask.

Love,
Kahani

Kahani's Beauty Profile

Age:28
Skin type: Very Oily, Blemished
Main problems: Excessive oil, pimple-prone, clogged pores around and on the nose
No-no ingredients: Shea Butter, Dimethicone, Jojoba Oil (all cause breakouts)
HG ingredients: Aloe Vera, Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, Neem, Kaolin Clay, Silica
Favourite scents: Pink Grapefruit, Berries, Amazing Grace by Philosophy, Peppermint

Skincare

Cleanser: Johnson & Johnson's Head to Toe; Clinique Clarifying Lotion #3
Eye & Lip Makeup Remover: Etude House Lip & Eye Remover, L'Oreal Lip & Eye Makeup Remover
Scrub: Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub
Mask: Himalaya Herbals Neem Face Pack
Serum: Murad Exfoliating Blemish Treatment Gel
Treatment: Differin, Benzac 2.5%
Moisturiser (Day & Night): ~H2O+ Face Oasis 
Facial Sunscreen: Still Looking...
Neck & Decolletage: Clean & Clear Clear Fairness with SPF15

Colours
Foundations: Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation in Warm Ivory, Everyday Minerals Matte Foundation in Light, ZA 2-Way Foundation in 22; Beauty Blender Sponge
Concealer: theBalm Time Balm Concealer
Favourite blush colours are: Pinky, peachy (but not orange), mauve and red-based
Favourite eyeshadow colours are: Dark neutral brown (no red), Taupe, Gunmetal Grey, Purple, Olive Green, honey gold,

When I Fall In Love...

And I think I so have. With two products, that is. =P

I feel a little bad about not being able to do the tag (due to the circumstance I was in when I saw it... screaming editor and approaching deadline does not bode well for photo-taking), so I'm going to make it up by sharing with you dear loverly readers a picture of me totally bare faced.

Which is pretty equivalent to having to take a pic of me on the spot, right?

So read on if you wanna know which two products have reached HG status for me. And oh, if (and only if) you wanna see me sans makeup. *tee hee*

So here you go. The two products I can not live without now:

~H20+ Face Oasis Hydrating Treatment

You can click here for Kahani's review of it. I really love this stuff. And while I'm not going to do another full blown review, I'd just like to add my two cent's worth on this product. I only use it during the night, and it works like a charm. Like Kahani, I wake up to perfectly moisturised and happy skin, so my makeup applies so much better without the flaky skin. It also seems to have calmed my skin down a lot, and I'm just glad my skin loves this stuff.

b.liv (by celniq) Pro Sebum Gel

Again, not a complete review, but this has been my day gel which I apply before I even slap on sunscreen. Just one pump is more than sufficient for my entire face. It says on the bottle that it's a "Superstar gel that eliminates white and blackheads incredibly", and that you're suppose to apply to your T-zone. I apply mine to my entire face though. Seems to work well enough.

I don't know about its sebum controlling powers, my face still needs a blot up once or twice depending on how hot the day is and how long I'm at work for. I'm not really plagued by blackheads either, although I do know I have some whiteheads.

Anyways, after using both these products together in my daily skincare routine for close to two months now, I am really, REALLY happy and impressed with the results. And boy, am I glad I found this a few months before my wedding. My skin can sure use all the help it can get.

So, take a look at the piccies and you tell me if you see a difference. =P

Then: This photo was taken in January, before I started with these two products in my daily routine. I had spot pimples, and my chin was a particular problem area which had a tendency to flare up easily. Especially at that time of the month.

Now: This photo was taken a few days back, right before I hit the sack, hence the baggy T and all. Sans makeup girls (and of course, the flash helped a lot). The only thing I had on was eye gel, Face Oasis and Papaw ointment on my lips. I can never do without lipbalm. =P 

After about two months, you can see it's still not a perfect canvas. You can still see the scars from previous massive pimples but overall I think my skin's improved heaps (save the growing eyebags). My skin feels supple and plumped, and the texture has improved greatly too. I don't even bother with concealer for work these days. Just my ZA two-way and foundation's done. =)

And the BEST part is, during Aunty Annie's visit didn't last month, it didn't even cause a single breakout. Nada. Zilch. (Oh dear, I am so hoping I'm not jinxing myself with this statement!) How cool is that?

So, I hope this has more than re-payed the tag. =P

Have a good weekend darlings!

Video: Friday is for French beauty, Audrey Tatou

I was delighted that Audrey Tatou, who I've loved since the movie Amelie, was selected to play Coco Chanel in the recently released movie, Coco Avant Chanel. I really hope it comes to Malaysia - would love to attend the premier with my beauty blogger ladies, all of us dressed to the nines in Chanel-like (well, I can't actually afford anything Chanel... except maybe a lipstick... ) attire. What do you say, ladies?

And of course, who but Audrey Tatou would star in the latest Chanel Noº5 Short Film advertisement? Love her huge expressive eyes - they give me chills. And the guy... RAWR!

I've been on the European night trains, and I've met someone in an airport who I fell a little in love with. We talked for 10 hours straight, and have never seen each other again. This advertisement makes me sigh...



Check out "The Making Of" the advertisement, and the trailer for Chanel Avant Coco after the jump.

The Making Of



The Trailer for Coco Avant Chanel

DIY Beauty: Making lipglosses from SN Mineral Blush

Many of you have heard me banging on about how much I love mixing Silk Naturals' Mineral Blushes with clear gloss to use on my lips. I find there's an added prettiness when the blush and gloss match exactly. This little secret is partly behind the pretty-factor for lip & cheek products like Posietint, Stila Convertibles, and Nars the Multiple.

The only thing I didn't like about mixing the blush with gloss was the inconvenience and mess factor. If I dipped the brush in it, I'd contaminate the blush. If I tipped it out, there'd be waste. If I used my finger, I'd have to wash my hands. Plus it was impossible to top-up the gloss during the day.

So WHY it took me so long to pre-mix my blushes I don't know. I chose my three favourite gloss - blush combinations, Climax (Orgasm dupe), Babydoll (MAC Dollymix dupe), and Forbidden (Nars Outlaw dupe).

And just LOOK at the pretty-pretty colours!

(Please pardon the messy swatches)

(L-R) Babydoll, Climax & Forbidden

As you can see, the glosses are darker than their blush counterparts. And you slap on gloss, and dust on the blush so don't worry, your cheeks and lips will never be identical!

How to
As instructions go, this is going to be mighty useless I'm afraid as I don't have exact measurements for ANYTHING. I can only tell you that everything worked first go, and here's what I did.

First off, I know SN blushes are safe for lip-use as I have checked this with Karen. Please don't try this with any blush you're not sure about.

I used 5g jars that SN blush samples used to come in. I transfered the sifters into the newer SN sample jars (they are sifterless and can result in a poof of pink powder if you're in a rush). And I gave the jars a wash and dry first.

Next I shook the blush tubs about a bit so there was a goodly amount above the sifter before unscrewing the cap.

Then I used the little spatula to spoon a small amount of blush into the jar. Start small, as you can always add more.

Squirt a small amount of clear gloss in, and keep adding as needed.

I cut cotton-buds in two, and used the non-cottony bit to stir.

Keep stirring and adding one thing or another until you have the desired amount and consistency.

So how do they look?

Judge for yourself. =)

Climax (from a previous review)

Forbidden
(Yes trying out new too-pink foundy here - Bleh! Luckily it was free)

And my personal fave:

Babydoll

So will this be your next DIY Beauty project?

ARGH! Tagged!

Serves me right for surfing sites I shouldn't be peeking at at work! Ah well, luckily I blotted just before I clicked on Jenn's site!

I'm not tagging anyone as the evil stops here with me. =P

Kidding, it was a welcome relief in a really tough day and made me smile. If only for the pic. Now, back to work!

Sent via BlackBerry

Sweet Stains: The Body Shop Lip & Cheek Stain

Of all the stains I have this is at present, the closest in shade and nature to Benetint as it is a rosy sheer red that functions both as a lip & cheek stain. Although many (including me) have regarded this as a cheaper version of Benetint, I'd like to point out that the Lip & Cheek Stain in shade 01 (it's the ONLY non LE shade) is very affordable in Malaysia at only RM39 for 8ml while Benetint (if you buy it online) is RM100 for 12.5 ml making TBS RM3 cheaper per ml than Benetint. It's also very wonderfully portable and I prefer its doe-foot applicator to Benetint's rather tickly brush.

Colour
It is more pigmented than Benetint as I swiped it only once on my hand below, and I swiped Benetint twice. In undertones it is also cooler than Benetint, although the difference is slight, I do believe that this makes it a little less friendly to warmer-toned girls. On me (I'm cool-toned), it's more brightening than Benetint but at the same time, less natural.

So since the one-coat, two-coat lip routine worked so well in the Benetint post...

One Coat

Two Coats

I'm sorry the pics are so darned washed out. I found a setting that's great for faces lousy for lips - and only just realised it. If enough people complain I'll redo the pics...*grumble grumble*

See what I mean about good for faces? It doesn't give that awful flashed-out effect.

On Cheeks and Lips

Formula
This is more gel-like than Benetint, and therefore doesn't seem to sink as easily into the lines on my lips - making it a better option.

On the cheeks I find Benetint lasts longer, but TBS is easier to blend in. However, Benetint is sheerer so it's harder to overdo. TBS well... two dots too many and you're in Clown City. No fear, just grab the powder foundation and blend blend blen to nudge yourself back over the city border.

And oh yes, in my previous review, I forgot to mention Benetint smells of roses. A scent that I prefer greatly to TBS's stain. This one smells like sickly sweet cough syrup. Euch! Thank goodness it fades away really fast.

Wear
On my hand below it's the second from right, and well it doesn't hold up to soap and water very well.
]
But I wore it about all day and it lasted with minimal fading through a light meal, drinks, and a hot sweaty day. So yay!

Conclusion
If you're a cool toned girl, this is definitely a great option to Benetint. Especially when you can buy it at any TBS store as opposed to having to ship it over from the US. For everyday base-wear though I still tend towards Benetint as this is twice as pigmented and less natural a red.

Review: Rexona Women Skin Care Dry Stick 24HR Antiprespirant Deodorant in Skin Light with Sunflower Oil

Yargh that's a long title. But they have so many varieties that it's absolutely necessary I'm specific as this is the only one I love. Not like, love.

Perhaps not the most glamorous product ever reviewed here on So Loverly, this is nonetheless one of the most essential. Well of course. I wouldn't be very loverly if I smelt funny now would I?

So far this is the first and only deo to be reviewed on this blog, not that I haven't used others - I just haven't liked any of the others enough to review it before!

So what's so special about this one?

Dry Stick vs Roll On or Aerosol
I've tried all three, and hands-down dry-stick is my fave. It doesn't sting when used immediately after shaving, there's no waiting around for it to dry, and there's no chance of you missing your armpit and spritzing yourself in the eye! (a secret fear of mine)

Also when travelling, there's no liquid rule restrictions, no fear of exploding cans or spilling jars. It's also easy to apply under clothing - crucial when you've forgotten to use it before getting dressed.

Now bear in mind that I don't have a problem with extra sweaty armpits or body-odour even without deo. I just prefer to use one because of the added comfort factor of absolutely dry armpits combined with the happy knowledge that I don't stink. I suspect if you do really want to combat BO and moisture, the other two formulas may work better.
Scent
This is perhaps the most important aspect to me. I would in fact prefer a scentless deodourant, but since it isn't available here I'll settle for this deo's scent. It's a quiet, faintly sweet, powdery scent with a fresh soapy tang. It doesn't clash with any perfumes, doesn't turn foul on my skin, and smells the same at the end of the day (but fainter of course!).

Formula
It glides on smoothly and invisibly leaving behind a sleek, silicone-y residue. While I honestly don't care about it lightening my underarms (like WHY would I care??) I do appreciate that it makes them smoother. Shaving has been easier and more comfortable since I switched to this deo.

While it does help keep my dry, this isn't heavy-duty antiprespirant. If it's terribly hot, or I exert myself, I will sweat. But for day to day use it's good enough!

Conclusion
This one is a keeper for me and at around RM9, it doesn't hurt to repurchase it over and over.

Monday's Beauty Bit: My lashed-out experience with Lancome Oscillation in the Mobile Lash Lab

When I was a wee lass I'd chase after ice cream trucks. Now I'm grown, and have left childish ways behind me.... I chase mascara trucks. Or to be precise, the Lancome Mobile Lash Lab that contains all the goodies to make my puny lashes flirty and long!

The cheerful black-clad and perspiring (it's rather warm in there) lash-labrats will measure your eyelashes (no I'm not kidding) in length and angle before and after they doctor them. Before being treated with the Lancome Lash Primer and their secret weapon - Lancome Oscillation Mascara (pix), my lashes were at a puny 5mm length and virtually straight at 100º (90º would be dead-on straight when my eyes are open).

So, how did the my lashes respond to the treatment?

I don't need to tell you which side has been 'done' and which side is au-natural do I?


After my lashes were "Oscillated" - it feels truly odd to have your lashes vibrated by the way - they achieved an extra 2mm in length making them 7mm. Plus, without curling and only this wonder-mascara, they headed upwards at a 135º inclination - which means they curled 35º upwards!

So what's stopping me from switching heart, soul and lashes over to this mascara forever and ever? Well, it's RM120 each. That's why. Which makes them very much a special-occasion thing. But if you do have a special occasion or two coming up this is very much worth your moolah as it really does work. Plus the batteries in the wand (which only vibrates when you press a button, genius!) will last you 9 months and the mascara is supposed to last 6 months after you crack it open.

Or better yet, win yourself one! Head over to Connie's blog where she's running a competition with a tube of Lancome Oscillation as the prize!

So how is this a Monday Beauty Bit? Well, I'm gonna tell you where, when and how you can catch the Lash Lab, and what's in it for you:

Promotion
The first 50 customers to visit the Lancome Mobile Lash Lab at each of its locations for a lash diagnosis will receive a sample tube of Lancome’s signature Virtuose mascara as well as an eyebrow trimming voucher worth RM50. Even if you're not in the first 50, there are still offers worth up to RM70 up for grabs.

Locations:
Kuala Lumpur
- 4th May (That's TODAY!): SS15 (near Asia Cafe)
- 5th May (Tues): Jalan Raja Chulan (near Bangunan AmBank)
- 6th May (Wed): Damansara Uptown (near Uptown 5)
- 11th May (Mon): Jalan Sultan Ismail (near Menara KH)
- 12th May (Tues): Jalan Raja Laut (near Bangunan KWSP)
- 13th May (Wed): Puchong Jaya (near HSBC)
- 14th May (Thurs): Bukit Tinggi commercial area, Klang
- 15th May (Fri): Aman Suria
- 16th May (Sat): Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (near Sogo Shopping Center)
- 17th May (Sun): Alamanda Putrajaya Shopping Center, Putrajaya

Johor Bahru
- 1st May (Fri): Jusco Tebrau City (Entrance 2)
- 2nd May (Sat): Plaza Pelangi

Malacca
- 3rd May (Sun): Mahkota Parade

Penang
- 7th May (Thurs): Jalan Northam
- 8th May (Fri): Gurney Plaza
- 9th May (Sat): Queensbay Mall

Ipoh
- 10th May (Sun): Kinta City

Opening Hours:
Weekdays (Mon - Fri): 11am to 3pm
Weekends (Sat & Sun & Shopping Malls): 11am to 6pm