Justme: New Passport Application at DFA Manila

Just lettin' you know beauties that yesterday I just applied for a passport in DFA Manila! Yay I never thought they'll accept my rushed and limited requirements but they did! Anyways another news is that I will definitely graduate on May 14! Like hey, hey! reality strikes, I-will-finally-graduate! *tears of joy*
So I wanted to share my experience in applying for a passport, please read on below! ;)

Here is the list of documentary requirements asked by DFA.
So looking at the requirement list I figured out that the requirements for me are:

1. Personal Appearance
2. Confirmed Appointment
3. Birth Certificate from NSO
4. Valid Picture ID's and supporting documents to prove my identity

There are additional requirements for late registered applicants, married, dual citizens and a whole lot more for minors. So as listed, I needed to present an ID and at least 3 supporting documents.

LIST OF ACCEPTABLE IDS (At least 1 of the following):
Government-issued picture IDs such as the following:
Digitized SSS ID
Driver’s License
GSIS E-card
PRC ID
IBP ID
OWWA ID
Digitized BIR ID
Senior Citizen’s ID
Other acceptable picture IDs such as the following:
Old College ID
Alumni ID
Old Employment IDs

LIST OF SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS (At least 3 of the following):
Voter’s ID
NSO Marriage Contract
Land Title
Seaman’s Book
Elementary or High School Form 137 or Transcript of Records with readable dry seal
Government Service Record
NBI Clearance
Police Clearance
Barangay Clearance
Old documents issued at least one year prior to date of application that show correct name, date and place of birth, picture and signature of applicant such as the following:
NSO Birth Certificate of child / children
SSS-E1 Form or Microfilmed Copy of SSS-E1 Form
Income Tax Return
Voter’s Certification, List of Voters and Voter’s Registration Record (for newly issued VRR, please attach receipt)
School Yearbook
Community Tax Certificate

My mind has gone in circles when I saw the requirements. If you will look at it, they only need pretty basic identifications, but I have a problem. My only ID is from school and since it was old, the photo is already fading (it was printed in PVC) and it is blurred already. Another thing is that, it needs to be surrendered soon.
I was aiming for SSS ID but I found out that they need 1 month contribution prior. Boohoo~ I was only about to apply in order to get my SS number. Where in the world can I get an ID?? (Forget about Recto, I want all things to be legit). Even my alumni ID is yet to be given to me. The hardships of a starter in the world of working, no identifications and limited everything.
For the supporting documents on the other hand I needed to present a new birth certificate (costs P140). It should be issued 1 year prior to date of application. Do not try to present an old copy, there is a way of knowing when it was issued. I will share how later. Other documents I tried to get:

Elementary or High School Form 137 or Transcript of Records with readable dry seal (There is a waiting time, based on how busy the people who'll sign the release of the forms)
NBI Clearance (easy but usually there is an 8 days waiting time for new applications, fast 1 day release for renewal based on my experience - apply online for more convenience. Waiting time will be cut in half.) Paid P115 for passport/travel abroad/green type of NBI clearance at Ever Recto near Isetann.
Police Clearance - Got this in 10 minutes or less. It was easy but costs P200 because its for traveling abroad.
Barangay Clearance - Easy and free as well! Requested mine from our barangay hall.
SSS-E1 Form or Microfilmed Copy of SSS-E1 Form - Takes 10 minutes or less! Again, it is free.
School Yearbook - Thinking twice on this one. I rarely hear that this is presented on DFA. Might be one of my last resort.
Community Tax Certificate - This is cedula! Yikes. Haha. I was clueless that I already paid for it when I got my Police Clearance. Only P6.

Okay so let me share my New Passport Application Experience~

I chose to set an appointment at  DFA Manila because this is the closest branch I am most comfortable with. The thought of application scares me so I needed a convenient and comfortable place to get it. Lels. So arte ano? I set up an appointment first here. Make sure to type in all correct information, and do not forget to add in a working email because this is where you will be sent  the file you will present upon your DFA appointment. I was lucky to get the earliest available appointment date available which is only less than 2 weeks away.  
TIP: Sometimes other applicant cancels their application and when that happens a slot opens, giving an earlier option for other applicants.

Fast forward to my appointment date I managed to get the ff:
Old College ID
A newly issued NSO birth certificate
Old but still valid NBI clearance (local employment/orange because the green one I paid for will only be released the next day after my appointment T_T)
Police Clearance
Barangay Clearance
SSS E-1 form
Community Tax Certificate

...and their respective photocopies. My highschool form 137 is 2 days late. Pshh~ Anyway I was crossing fingers that these would suffice. But it won't hurt to give it a try, after all this are really all I have at the moment so it was like its all or nothing for me. I quickly rushed to SM Manila (1 hour away from the office). I almost missed my appointment time which is 1 PM. DFA advises applicants to be there at least 30 minutes before the chosen appointment time to avoid delays. I heard they have a cut-off and they do not allow late comers.

I presented my printed DFA Passport Appointment form and proceeded with the next step:

STEP 1: PROCESSING
They are the ones who will check your documents. The moment of truth for poor me. I was praying so hard not to be assisted by the guy with glasses on window number 7 who seems to be bored and masungit to the first applicants. However by I don't know why, when it was my turn I have no choice but to go to him. Yikes.
Hmm~ but he was okay. He chatted with me about school and all and even joked about how much do I want to pay? Referring to rush or regular processing. I opted rush which is P1200. He got all of my photocopies then he stapled the original copies of receipt, birth certificate, NBI clearance (not the personal copy) and photocopy of my ID.

STEP 2: PAYMENT
I presented my receipt and paid P1200 for rush passport processing.

STEP 3: ENCODING
This is where the biometrics and picture taking happens. Contact lens and earrings are not allowed. Fringes (bangs) and so does hair covering the ears is a no-no as well. I wonder how I will look like in my passport? There I also made a digital signature, they also took digital left and right thumbprints and finally, my fail picture. Boooo~

If you opt to drop by DFA on the date of your passport's release then you are finished here. But if you want to have it delivered then there is step 4.

STEP 4: DELIVERY
They use LBC for door-to-door delivery. They will have your address double checked and they will again, get a sign. I paid for P120 for this. Well just in case a delay or something I was spared the hassle of repeat visits to DFA.


STEP 5: RELEASING 
Waiting for my passport release and delivery on May 16. And so that's it!

TIPS:
If you have questions you can email: info@passport.com.ph
They are so fast in answering queries. Like I just sent an email and they will reply in a minute or so. It was that fast!

Hope this post has helped you ladies in some way especially those graduating beauties who are yet to apply for a passport and has very limited documents like me.
Feel free to share your passport application experience in the comments below! :)

 

Easter Sunday: Cream-O Shake!

Happy Easter Sunday!
In celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, we prepared our all time favorite -  Cream-O Shake :)

The ingredients are just basic!

• About 2-3 packs of Cream-O
• Evaporated Milk (even condensed milk works fine! (^ _ ^)/)
• Sugar 
• Ice (crushed or tube, it doesn't really matter) 

Ingredients snapshots!

Steps are easy as 1-2-3! :)

1. First crush the ice and Cream-O (just enough to make blending easier for the blender)

2. Next add all of the ingredients to the blender and blend blend blend! <3

Add more sugar or milk. It depends on your preference. Kyaa~ ლ(⌒▽⌒ლ)

3. Pour in a nice glass, add more crushed Cream-O on top and more milk, voila! Cream-O Shake for this hot summer! Enjoy! ヾ(。◕ฺ∀◕ฺ)ノ

Okay so off-topic, I was never able to watch 'A walk to remember' (my childhood fave: Mandy Moore's movie) so I was really glad when it was aired on tv. A story that revolved in hope, love and trust in God. The quote above from the Bible is mentioned in the movie. Aww~ <3

To end this post yay, lemme share this cute image of a seemingly Bunny working out for Easter. Yay Kawaii~ (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

Credits: Photo from 9GAG

 

Review: Avon Care Fairness Exfoliation Face Wash

Avon Care Fairness Exfoliation Face Wash with Licorice says:
New Avon Care Fairness Exfoliation Face Wash deeply cleanses skin and removes light make-up. After use, it makes skin look brighter and leaves a healthy, radiant and clear glow.
Formulated with Licorice Extract. Allergy tested. Dermatologist tested. Suitable for daily use.

To use: Take desired amount onto wet hand and create lather. Massage onto face in a circular motion. Rinse off and pat dry, use daily.

Avon Care Fairness Exfoliation Face Wash on the left corner

...And off to a quick review! (＾▽＾)

I use Avon Care Fairness Exfoliation Face Wash in place of my Celeteque Moisturizing facial wash. It smells like candy for me, well I love sweet scents though in terms of beauty products I prefer them unscented. There is nothing special with the packaging because like any other facial wash its also in a tube. Handy and of course hygienic, you control how much product you use.

This facial scrub is in gel form and has micro beads. Somehow this beads are quite grainy and big compared to the usual beads I've used from other commercial brands. It exfoliates well for that matter but does not whiten nor brighten. Skin looks fresh after usage though. I'm glad that unlike other facial scrubs it does not aggravate my pores. （￣ー￣）

I've used this daily until I noticed it dries my skin. Maybe it suits girls with oily skin? (/•ิ_•ิ)/
I have combination skin now, semi dry semi oily type of skin that is. I still use facial cleanser like Eskinol or sometimes makeup remover (hihi, sometimes..lol) to remove traces of dirt and/or easily remove makeup.

How much and where to buy?
P99/tube from your Avon Ladies

What I love?

• It did not broke me out
• Sweet candy smell
• Affordable

What I don't?

• Product is not accessible
• Drying if used daily (coz maybe it suits oily skin type)
• Can't fully remove makeup

TIPS: Use this only once or twice a week because contrary to its name, Avon Care Fairness Exfoliation Face Wash is actually a facial scrub.


Will I repurchase?
Maybe not.

Overall~
A good average facial scrub (with a misleading name). I would like to try other brands that has other functions like giving in moisture, fighting acne etc.

YAY. So whatta long weekend. I'm missing my favorite Coffee jelly Chillz in Mini Stop. Sadly the nearest  store at work is in renovation until July. Boohoo~ (-̩̩̩-̩̩̩-̩̩̩-̩̩̩-̩̩̩___-̩̩̩-̩̩̩-̩̩̩-̩̩̩-̩̩̩)

 

Definitely Japan. Definitely Kojie.san

Definitely Japan. Definitely Kojie.san.

Hey hey summer heat! Well I am still at work and I can definitely feel that it is summer even at night while I'm on my train ride back home (do they really turn off the LRT aircon during rush hours? It is so H-O-T!)
I bet most of you beauties are oh-so ready to jump in the beach waves, spend hours in the sand and under the heat of the sun. But that could lead to tan lines and/or sunburn, so never forget sunblock! However despite usage of such products, exposure to too much sun may still result to a darkened skin tone. Good thing, that problem is no biggie because there are whitening soaps in the market which can help you in bringing back your original skin tone.

My favorite whitening buddy? Kojic soap. I know that there are lots of unbranded kojic soaps in the market. I even encountered scrap kojic soaps in some mall stands. However when it comes to skincare it is important to use only the original kojic acid soap to ensure that you'll get results with every wash. Only the original kojic soap made by a reputable brand can give you peace of mind. By reputable, I can only think of one brand name: Kojie.san.

Kojie.san is the first kojic acid soap to be commercially available in the Philippine market. I can still remember Alodia Gosiengfiao as one of their first endorser (I really really like her!) I am actually one of the first buyers and users of Kojie.san and still a user! All I can say is they managed to really maintain the quality of products throughout the years. Hellamazing.

Simplicity is beauty. The white box with the image of a geisha on the side is eye catching. It is also economical to buy two soaps at a time.

Upon usage you will feel a tingling sensation (a sign that the product works!). It is quite drying (well expected because it is an acid soap), my skin feels a bit tight after using it. However dead skin sloughs off after a week of usage because Kojie.san has a micro peeling effect, which makes it a potent whitening product. However do not worry because it does not contain any harmful chemicals. It contains antioxidants and 100% all natural ingredients. I use Kojie.san not just for maintaining my skin tone but also for removing dark spots left by bug bites on my legs and arms. It is definitely working, the result is gradual but it gave me a glowing type of fairness plus an extra smooth skin too.

Definitely the bar that sets the bar.  Look at the improvement of my complexion. Yay~ :)
Kojie.san deserves an A++ rating!

PHOTO CREDITS: Photo on the right by Totodale Photography

 

Review: Etude House Fresh Cherry Tint in Cherry Peach

Graduation day is comiiiiing! Yes finally. I wonder how our family will celebrate the day? I am so excited! ＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／

Everybody knows that I love pink but for some reason I started to like peach colors lately because it looks more natural on me than pink. Lemme introduce you to Etude House Fresh Cherry Tint in Cherry Peach.

There are other colors to try from their Cherry Tint line like red and pink.

 ✧ETUDE HOUSE✧

Fresh Cherry Tint 

OR 201 Cherry Peach 

 Tint promotes moist & shiny cherry lips with a creamy, smooth texture.

[Directions] Use tip to gather and apply tint. Apply extra layer for more coverage.

9g.

This product inspired me to use cute japanese emoticons! Like yeah~ ≧(´▽｀)≦

I so love cutesy stuffs and getting old won't set me back from loving them. Hoho~ I use this tint when I want to sport au-naturele look. Like when I am going to school. I love pairing it with a soft pink or peach blush.

So I have used this with and without balms. It does suffice on providing moisturized healthy lips finish but it doesn't really last long. It has a creamy consistency same to milky tints of Tony Moly. If you don't use a lip balm you will soon have dry and chapped lips. Not a big problem because I know that it's ordinary for lip tints to be drying. The color (quite orangey) peach changes once applied. It becomes kinda pinkish on me which I like. Color is not camera friendly, it does not show much in pictures. But sometimes I still use it alone or as a base for my peachy/skin tone lipsticks.

The Packaging:
Sweet sexy peachy bottle which says 'Fresh Cherry Tint'. The sponge tip applicator picks just the right amount of product.

How much? P298 online while in their Etude House shops its P378.
TIP: Buying Etude House products online is cheaper and may save you money if you plan to buy lots of stuff. However you must be willing to wait because most of the time, products are on pre-order. Fret not, because there are perks in buying in kiosks and EH shops in SM Malls, spending P500 or over a thousand will earn you princess points and freebies! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:・ﾟ✧

Where to buy? At Etude House shops and kiosks at SM Malls nationwide, or online!

What I love:

• It leaves glossy finish so no need for lip gloss
• Moisturizes lips but when tint dries I need to reapply because my lip chaps
• There is tint left after the gloss wears away
• Smells like candies! Hmm... sweet!
• Color is comparable to the natural lips when freshly exfoliated
• Makes me look healthy and not overdone

What I don't:

• It does not last long.

Will I buy again? I found other peachy lip products from Etude House and I plan to buy some. I might repurchase Fresh Cherry tint some other time.

Overall~

A really good product as always from Etude House, worth every penny IMO.

Etude House Fresh Cherry Tint in Cherry Peach in action. Please excuse our faces. Hihi can we pass up as an Ulzzang couple? Yay, kidding! <3

 

Review: Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream

Ayo beauties! It's been so long since I have been missing in action. I was even contemplating if I should go back or what since I really do not have the time to produce entries anymore. Good thing, I was inspired to continue by a new friend! Hi there Alyssa! ^^

I will do my best to get entries up during my not-so-much free time. There has been too much stress that I felt I need a break. But hey, duty calls, that is why don't have much chance to see the sun lately. Everyday is like just me and the air conditioner. Hello dry skin! Yikes. Dry skin makes my pores more prominent, another problem eh? Based on my story you can tell that my skin haven't been spoiled much lately. Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream to the rescue. Yay, something I bought online after some research. I am intrigued on what wonders Snail Filtrate can do to my skin so I gave in.

Credits: Hipstyle onlineshop

What Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream says:

 Rejuvenate your skin using the powerful ability of snails!
Snail Slime’s Surprising Regeneration!

1. Regenerate your skin, the same way snails regenerate their own shell!
The benefit to human was discovered after workers in a snail farm found that the skin of their hands was baby soft after handling the snails all day. Therefore it’s obvious that what restores a snails shell can have equally astounding reaction on human skin.

2. What is snail slime extract? Snail slime is a source of copper peptides. Most of the research on copper peptides relates to wound healing and there is a large base of evidence that the same magical effects can repair wrinkles.

Highly Recommended For:
- Acne scars
- Sensitive and tired skin due to environmental factors
- Skin pores losing elasticity / large pores
- Uneven dark skin tone
- Irritated skin from shaving or skin clinic procedures
- Increasing fine wrinkles from losing moisture and elasticity

Korean No.1 Snail Cream contains at least 92% of Snail excretion.
Don't be fooled by cheap creams which only contain less than 10% of the active snail excretion ingredient. This is the only one with so many quality ingredients, including vitamins.

Buy with confidence. * Why is it so famous Snail Cream in Korea? Mizon Snail Cream is a miraculous cream made with the natural secretion of the snail. It improves skin elasticity and supplying nutrition to the skin, in a concentrated and optimal way by utilizing scientific cosmetic technology. It prevents skin problems, which can be cause by various factors, and keep the skin youthful and healthy by protecting and regenerating.
 

Ingredients:

Snail Secretion Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether, Dimethylsilane, Polysorbate2-, Sodium Hyaluronate, Carbomer, Glycosyl Trehalose, Hydrogenated Starch Hydolsyate, Triethanolamine, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Caprylyl Glyocol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Polyacrylate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Camellias Sinensis Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Betula Platylphylla Japonica Juice, Tropolone, Copper Tripeptide-1, Allantoin, Panthenol, Olea Europaea (olive) Fruit Oil, Helianthus Annuus (sunflower) Seed Oil, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA

Snail Secretion Filtrate – This product is comprised of 74% snail mucin. Snail mucin is skin friendly because it contains an array of antioxidants, and proteins as well as elastin and glycolic acid. It’s also antimicrobial, and in addition to being shown to effectively promote wound healing in a couple of in-vitro studies, there was a newer study released in April of this year that showed snail secretion to be effective when it comes to repairing photodamage. It’s especially helpful for acne, overall skin tone, and reducing acne scarring. (Study: Effects of Snail Secretion Filtrate on Photoaged Skin)

What it is?
A gel type of skin moisturizer which is said to have anti-aging and healing properties. You can tell that I'm sold on their claim to give elasticity to pores.

Packaging

Tube type packaging is simply cute. Just the right size filled with 45ml. snail goodie. There is even a seal to prove its authenticity. It is hygienic and the plastic tube is pink! Need I say more?

My Experience:

Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream has a similar color and texture to a jelly. It is thick like a cream but spreads like a gel. It is unscented (but has a distinct very faint smell) and leaves a cool soothing feeling to the skin once applied. I usually use this before going to bed as a night cream and before applying make-up as a make-up base. I notice that my face looks fresh when I wake up. Besides seeing radiant skin day after day I noticed that my skin looks firmer as well. However I can't attest if it reduced wrinkles because I got none of those yet.

How much and Where to Buy? P295/ 45 ml. tube in Facebook Korean online shops.

What I love?

• It's a good make-up base
• Soothing to the skin
• Skin looks radiant the next day
• Not sticky nor greasy.
• Did not broke me out
• Easily absorbed by skin but leaves a thin film afterwards

 What I don't?

• Product is not accessible
• Sadly no visible changes on pores (which was expected)
• Not moisturizing
• Does not clear up acne nor lighten scars

TIPS:

Tap tap your skin for better product absorption.
Can be a good makeup base or night cream.
Do not forget to moisturize because this baby does not hydrate skin.

Will I repurchase?
Yes. Mizon Snail Cream is 74% snail filtrate, natural and not to mention affordable. I would not mind repurchasing because it has a multi-functional product for me: makeup base and night cream.

Overall~

So far I have not experience drastic change based on what Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream promises. However I am positive that natural products can give visible results with continuous usage. Natural products are safe and okay to be use for a prolonged time so I wouldn't worry. If you would want to try out snail secretion filtrate products then you might want to try this first before venturing into more expensive snail products.

 JUST AN UPDATE: Yay~ Lookie! I've thought of adding more fiber into my diet by eating oatmeal for breakfast. I've bought two different brands of the same oatmeal flavor I like for Cerelac - Banana! <3

 

Girl's Day Wins on Show Champion with Something!

So happy to read good news on a Thursday morning. I am actually late but its now or never. Girl's Day finally wins #1 on a major music show (Show Champion). Not a surprise, for 'Something' is indeed a terrific hot comeback that deserves the top spot. Read the news from Allkpop. It's so nice to read positive comments, gone are the days that they don't like Girl's Day for no reason.

Its catchy, its sexy and its real music! Hooray for giving me a Major LSS with Something. The whole mini album is a total package, even the following tracks is awesome. The intro is a cool song which puts me into a playful vibe. Whistle, (literally includes whistles! LOL) is a sexy song which can be a really good follow-up song to Something. Show you, on the other hand, is a perfect sweet ending song for a concert! Crosses fingers for a Girl's Day Philippines concert! (Pray hard!)~ Then there goes the last track, Something instrumental which you can use as a minus one when creating audition videos or a song cover. I really hope they release this soon on C.NA so I can grab a copy! :'>

The sexy choreography is simply impressive. I have all the support and faith that Girl's Day will win and they just did!

For those who haven't checked out their newest MV: Something. Do not miss out! <3

Here is their live performance of Show You. I feel bad for Yura who only did the rapping. Hyeri got more lines this time, yay~ I love her voice. :)

The winning 'Something' performance of Girl's Day:

Here is Girl's Day's winning moment in Show Champion, Maknae Hyeri doing the thank you speech! <3 Aww~

 

Chien's Holy Grail List of 2013

So because 2013 has just ended, I thought of compiling a list of my HG selections from the products I've used from last year.

Take note that some products is already reviewed while others are not. I will try to blog more despite this busy schedule of mine. I am so glad that most of the products I have added in my HG list are accessible and affordable.I am still slowly building my HG list, and I am still on the lookout for facial scrubs, moisturizer, lotion etc.

Okay before we take off, what is HG?

HG means Holy Grail -It pertains to any product that you will always come back to because you cannot find anything better. A product you will buy again and again. A product you will not let yourself run out of. 

On me: Fashion 21 two-way cake foundie (Shade #2), Etude House Fresh Cherry tint in Peach, Sparkle Lens in Black

MAKE UP

• Fashion 21 two-way cake Foundation 

Best powder foundation for any skin day! Yes it does not matter if it is a good or bad skin day, I just love this foundation. Shade 1 and 2 is lighter than my face but perfect as it makes you picture-ready, while shade 3 is good for oh-so-normal days of mine (school, OJT...) and shade 4 might my sister. She has a slightly darker skin tone than mine, but overall if I would look it, Fashion 21 doesn't really offer a dark shade. Their darkest shade can still be considered as natural.

• LA Colors Mascara

No clumps, no fall outs and lengthens lashes. Need I say more?

HAIR CARE

• Avon's Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield Anti-Frizz Treatment

Tames my frizz in an instant. Sometimes it can make my hair oily if I by any chance I applied more than what I need.

SKIN CARE

• BL Cream

This is not a beauty product but hey! This is something worth repurchasing. It clears my occasional pimple breakouts and skin allergies. Not good for long term use because again, it is not really considered as a beauty product.

• Kojie san Dream White Soap 

After  my misfortune with a whitening soap, Kojie san comes to the rescue. This soap does not just whiten but can also correct any dark spots left by skin allergies and bug bites.

• Yoko Yogurt Spa Milk Salt 

Definitely my favorite body scrub because it does not just exfoliates, it can also whiten! I've proven this to work within just a week. This spells LOVE.

• Strip-It Cold Wax

 I am never going back to plucking and shaving. Contrary to what out other sissies have tend to believe in, using cold wax to remove hair involves less pain (even pain free if you are used to it).

• Avon Clearskin Blemish Rescue Instant Spot Corrector 

 The most affordable acne gel I came across with. Awesome breakout buddy, coz meeeen~ it works!

• Celeteque DermoScience Hydration Facial wash 

Cleans as it moisturizes skin. Hoping to try its facial scrub and moisturizer counterpart soon.

• Eskinol Spot-Less White Facial Deep Cleanser

A local product that simply works. Squeaky clean face any time, every time. :)

I am still looking forward for more beauty products to try this 2014!~ (I am so AFNSGMHMHMW, excited!) Dear sissies, I hope you can also share your HG list with me! :)

 

Review: Covergirl AquaSmooth Compact Foundation

Covergirl AquaSmooth Compact Foundation
What Cover girl says about the product:
Designed with AquaCurrent Science, this vitamin-enriched formula directs moisture to your skin's surface to improve its condition over time, while giving smooth, even coverage that makes imperfections virtually vanish before your eyes. This solid makeup transforms into a liquid during application, then dries to an even, powder-light finish. Oil-Free and Noncomedogenic (won't clog pores) SPF 15 UVA/UVB Sunscreen Vitamins B3, B5, and E 
Credits: Covergirl

Instructions:

1. Using the sponge puff, apply a small amount of AquaSmooth Compact Foundation to the center of your cheeks and forehead.
2. Avoid creating a mask by blending towards the edges of your face, concentrating on uneven areas and decreasing intensity towards the hairline. 
3. Don't rub! Lightly dabbing will remove excess foundation without smearing or removing the good stuff.

***

I bought Covergirl AquaSmooth Compact Foundation from a bazaar, this is my first cream foundation and I am thrilled to try something new!

The Look
There is nothing special with the packaging but I find that the mirror is too small. It might do if I have no other options for a face mirror.

My Experience
I got the shade 'Creamy Natural' which is perfect for my skintone. The first thing I noticed is the fact that a little goes a long way! Product will surely last a long time. The coverage is awesome and I don't need concealer anymore. The foundation is light and non-sticky, almost comparable to powder foundation feel and it glides on smoothly on my skin. I still prefer using moisturizer and/or primer beforehand though. It does not oxidize on me and after it melts my face seems glowing (think of bb cream/ mineral powder look) but take note that it is oil-free! It does not give me comedones on the nose unlike bb creams what bb creams does (personal problem). It is a delight that it has SPF but I still recommend the usage of sunblock.

How much?
Php545 for 12 grams product

Where to buy?
Landmark, SM beauty section

What I love:

• No breakouts
• Makes skin flawless-looking with glow.
• Not sticky
• Light almost comparable to powder foundie
• Medium coverage
• No need for concealer because it covers blemishes well
• Little product lasts a long way
• Cream and blends like a dream because of powder like finish.
• Natural oils blended after 20 to 30 minutes, it will look more natural
• White cast on flash photography because of SPF

What I don't:

• Small mirror
• Messy/hassle application because it is in cream form

TIPS:
Bring blotting paper you might still need to blot oil every now and then.
Not a camera friendly make-up so try to avoid using this on events/ parties where cameras are everywhere.

Overall~
I love my experience on my very first cream foundation, but I will still use Fashion 21 foundie when I am in a hurry. I might buy another one but I would want to try some other brands first like James Cooper or Pinkie Swear.


 

Review: ActiveWhite Bleaching Soap Review

Wow Merry Christmas! Long time no update, yeah sorry I have been too focused on my on-the-job training. But it is all worth it, they've already asked me to become part of their company. *throws confetti*

Yay so a few updates, just been having a good time shopping and browsing online (Zalora, Eazyfashion, Sampleroom) since I have no time to stroll at the mall. I have also bought a 2nd hand phone from tipidcp.com (TIP: be extra cautious on how to deal with sellers, better transact with those who already have feedback). I bid goodbye to my old Myphone T23 Duo which has served me for three years. It is still working but I opt to upgrade to Myphone A888 for the sake of viewing better videos. Hooray! Now I enjoy playing with an Android game shared by my special someone: MyBoo, too bad that I can't update it over wifi due to an error. That was me, being all random again. So off to a review for today:

ActiveWhite Bleaching Soap Skin Whitener with Glutathione says: 

A great soap for dark and discolored skin. Target problem spots and combat hyperpigmentation with this special intense whitening soap that combines a bleaching formula with glutathione. Have smooth and fair skin that glows.

Ingredients: Coconut oil, Caustic Soda, Titanium Dioxide, Sodium Silictae, Castor Oil, Cocomide DEA, Scent, Alpha Hyoroxyl Acid, Milk Extract, Phenoxythanol, L-Glutathione, Beta Arbutin, De-Ionized Water

I was checking out the available whitening soaps in Watsons and oh-well my mind was going in circles when I landed on a decision to purchase Active White Bleaching Soap. Did I made a right decision? Read on to find out.

Seriously, you can't get much info from the website of ActiveWhite here. Based from my research they have just changed their packaging, what I have posted above is the latest since it was just manufactured fresh from this month, Dec 2013 and expiration is far on Dec 2015. The old packaging indicates that it contains L-glutathione which is the selling point of the product. There are not much reviews on the web for ActiveWhite, I already bought the product even before I've read details about it.  I was just brave enough to venture out on using a product I was unfamiliar with.

The look:
I find the marbled look of this soap interesting. (Photo above) I don't know if they have this is other sizes but they currently offer three variants. All of them has the same ingredients except for their special content which differs them from each other: Beta carotene (Blue box - ActiveWhite Bleaching Soap), Rosehip (Orange box - ActiveWhite Rosehip Soap), Plain Glutathione (ActiveWhite Pink box - Glutathione Soap).

The scent:
It has a really faint scent which can be next to nothing. It is perfectly okay with me though, I do prefer unscented beauty products.

The experience:

At first I thought ActiveWhite Bleaching Soap is moisturizing because it is bubbly and it doesn't sting during the first 3 days that I have used it. Truth has to be revealed though, it is still a bleaching soap. I just suddenly experienced itchiness while I was in the office. I found my skin to have some bumps due to dryness, yikes! My skin showed the same reaction when I used bleaching lotion from BCP before. I can't help but become worried if I should continue or stop the usage of the product. My skin was next to being okay before I have used this soap and I kinda regret using it. Within 7 days my skin was micropeeling. Of course just like any bleaching product, skin became a bit darker than its normal color and somehow glossy (sign that skin will peel). It is continuously micro peeling but after a week, I felt like my skin has adjusted to the product. I refrain from using lotion though because I don't think it is fine to use two products at a time. I only apply hydrocortisone cream when my skin is itchy, err... sometimes Katinko because I like it as an itch-reliever too.


The price: 
Php 89/ 135g soap

What I love:

• It lathers well
• Exfoliated my skin
  

What I don't:

• Highly drying
• Bad reaction of my skin to the soap
• Cannot use lotion, other products etc
• Melts fast. Two weeks for a 135 g product.

Will I repurchase?
No. I don't want to risk myself on another skin reaction. ActiveWhite Bleaching Soap is not for me, would not try the other variants lol. I might just purchase real moisturizing soaps next time instead. Boohoo for this misfortune. T^T

Overall~
Did I whiten? It melted even before I can make a valid conclusion, however since my skin is already well-exfoliated then I think whitening products will be more effective.

ActiveWhite  Bleaching Soap is not for me. But what doesn't work on me does not mean won't work on you, and vice versa. Always remember to stop usage if you experienced severe dryness/rashes.

***

VIXX (my sister's current bias group) and Girl's Day (our all-time bias girl group) has made a special stage performance and they danced to NOW of Troublemaker. I was having mini heart attack from watching this, fangirl feels. Kyaa~ <3

 

Review: Avon Clearskin Blemish Rescue Instant Spot Corrector

Hello Break outs! Oh its that time of the month again. Yay remember my Avon loot from last time?

 

 Avon Clearskin Blemish Rescue Instant Spot Corrector

. Acne control contains Salicylic Acid 2.0%

Avon says: Formulated with the maximum level of Salicylic Acid and Fast Clear Technology to work fast. This acne treatment helps reduce redness and swelling in just 3 hours.

TO USE: Cleanse skin thoroughly: smooth a thin layer over affected area 1-3 times daily. Starting with 1 application and gradually increasing to 2-3 times daily if needed.

 ***

I tend to have breakouts every month and I only use Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque. However I have thought of resorting to acne gels once again to save me from those bad skin days. Avon Clearskin Instant Spot Corrector was already cheap at P99 per tube. I was not expecting much from it but I am tempted to complete the products from their ClearSkin line because each product is already affordable at P99 each.

My Experience
Avon spot corrector comes in a clear gel form. I really can't describe how the acne gel smells but I like it. I only needed a small amount for every application on the affected areas. I tried using  Avon Clearskin Blemish Rescue Instant Spot Corrector before my period days and it works as it's supposed to! I love how I wake up to less inflamed acne. Yes it does work but breakouts from my period days seems to be harder to treat. I needed about 2 days of thrice application before I can see difference.

I have used this before using makeup and it leaves a thin film which cakes a bit once I apply powder foundation. It can stop pimples from growing but I needed to continue using the product before it fully disappears.

Click the photo to check the ingredients

How much?
P99/ 15 ml cheaper than other acne gel in the market. It has more product as well. Bang for the buck! Yay~

Where to buy?
Avon ladies and Avon stalls in the mall

What I like:

• It does control and dry acne.
• Size is visibly reduced after 3 hours.
• Does not leave dark spots unlike other correctors I've tried.
• Can be applied on acne scars to help it peel
• Bang for the buck! Less than P100 for a 15ml product.

 What I don't:

• Product is not accessible

Final thoughts

I am so glad that  Avon Clearskin Blemish Rescue Instant Spot Corrector worked on me I nearly hoarded. It is affordable yet effective. I love affordable goodies! :)
I am sure to buy again on my next Avon order.

How about you sweeties, what is your favorite brand of acne gel?