My First Photoshoot

Hey guys! I missed you all so much. How have you been?  It's been a while since the last time I wrote a blog. I missed blogging.  I've been busy with family affair and photo shoot gigs.

Here are some of my creations at my very first photoshoot.

Model: Khelly Welt

Photography: Farish Banalnal

You may view the rest of my works at Hair And Makeup By Gerlie Cruz.


I promise to blog about product review really soon. 

Ciao!

Review: Sleek Makeup True Colour Lipstick

I've been so busy lately but now I'm back with a review on Sleek True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef . I just love this lippie so much and I am excited to share it with you.

I'm so in love with coral and everything peach and orange. That's why when I saw this shade from Sleek MakeUP, I couldn't wait to buy one. The True Colour Lipstick is available in matte and sheen finish. Since I have a dry lips I mostly use lipsticks that have glossy finish because it helps moisten lips. It glides on easily when applied. Its highly pigmented, and conditioning to keep lips soft and supple. If you like matte finish you can buy the Papaya Punch which is the counterpart of this. 

Sleek MakeUP True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef

This is available in 20 shades ranging from nudes, to super bright barbie pinks and bold berries with sheen and matte finishes. 

Sleek MakeUP True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef

Sleek MakeUP True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef

Sleek MakeUP True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef

Sleek is well known for the simple, 'sleek' and very sturdy black packaging.  It's really cute and can fit inside small pouches so you can bring this anywhere. I got this for only P450 and it's totally worth it. Although it's really small and stout it holds the same amount of product as all the other lipsticks.

Sleek MakeUP True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef colour swatch without camera flash

Sleek MakeUP True Colour Lipstick in Coral Reef colour swatch with camera flash

This is a great colour choice if you want to wear bold lipstick and not be too bold. It's a combination of peach and orange shades. People with warm undertones will look stunning with this colour. This is so perfect for summer!

Pros

• Extremely moisturizing
• Stays on the lips for about 3-4 hours
• Extremely pigmented and opaque
• Very budget-friendly
• Cannot irritate skin
• Available locally

Cons

• Not transfer resistant.

I am excited to buy more shades of matte and sheen finish from Sleek MakeUP for my personal use and for my clients as well. I highly recommend this lipstick to all women. Ladies who are not regular lipstick users will enjoy very opaque without being too thick or dry.

I hope you like this review. Please do not hesitate to drop me a line.

Ciao!

Review: Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation

I had some fair share of bad decisions when it comes to buying liquid foundation. I have very dry skin so I had difficulties in finding the right one for my skin. Most of the time, the foundation itself is too cakey and gives me a white cast in pictures, its too oily or exaggerates the dry patches on the face.

I am a makeup artist and therefore I should perfect my knowledge in selecting the right foundation for different skin types. There were times when I thought I had chosen the right shade for me but to my horror, when I look at my pictures, I had actually not used the right foundation shade. While it looked really good in person, pictures tell a different story. 

In the Philippines the weather is mostly humid and excruciatingly hot except for rainy seasons but then again, weather is crazy these days (you can taste the rain on summer months and feel the sunshine when the monsoon blows); and majority of the people in our country have oily or combination skin type. I find that most foundations sold here are especially formulated for oily skin. If you have oily-skin it is easier to find the right foundation for your skin. You should look for oil free foundations.  While people with dry skin must look for water based foundation.

I know that high-end brands provide best results but when I tried the Revlon Colorstay Makeup for normal/dry skin, I was proven wrong. This is especially formulated for normal to dry skin. I initially got the shade in “medium beige”. It is currently my go-to foundation. The quality is almost the same with the high-end ones but the price is really affordable. It's not only comfortable on my skin, it also doesn't dry out my face. The color stays on my face for long hours. It feels lightweight  as if I am not wearing makeup. I would say it has come very close to being my favorite foundation. But my thirst for finding a “dream” foundation still continues. It’s a never ending process.

Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Normal/Dry Skin in Medium Beige

You can choose from 16 shades that will match your complexion. 

Ivory , Buff , Sand Beige , Nude , Natural Beige , Medium beige , Fresh beige , Golden Beige , Warm Golden , True Beige , Natural Tan ,Early tan , Rich Tan, Golden caramel , Toast , Rich ginger.

Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Normal/Dry Skin in Medium Beige

It comes in a bottle with a screw on cap. I do not like this packaging because it's breakable. I would be happier if it has a different packaging that is more portable and will not break easily. Also, it would have been better if it has a pump  to dispense the right amount.

Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Normal/Dry Skin in Medium Beige without a camera flash

Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Normal/Dry Skin in Medium Beige without a camera flash

Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Normal/Dry Skin in Medium Beige with a camera flash

Here are the swatches on my hand as you can see the color blends well on my skin. I'm happy with my pick because even with a camera flash, it didn't show a white cast. I suggest that before you go and buy a foundation make sure to understand your skin type (normal, oily or combination). You should also check if you have pink undertones or yellow undertones. So make sure to get a foundation that suits your undertones and something that doesn't look ashy on the skin. Take your time. Have some research. Don’t rush into buying one.

Bare Face

After applying the Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation

I applied the foundation directly on my face and I set it with powder. I did not apply corrector and concealer. If you will notice that my skin blemishes have disappeared. The red and dark spots are hidden.Indeed the Revlon Colorstay offer full coverage. I suggest you apply moisturizer under the foundation if you are on the dry skin side. 

Pros 

• Has great shade selection. A total of 16 shades.
• Available in two types – combination/oily skin, and normal/dry skin.
• coverage is very good. Definitely build-able to get a the desired coverage.
• Do not give skin irritation.
• The foundation stays on on the skin for  long hours.
• Budget-friendly price
• Great reviews from other beauty gurus.

Cons

• Not so convenient packaging.

So, I hope you guys liked this review. If you are on the market for a good foundation, you should give this a try. I am pretty sure it won’t disappoint you.This is one product that I would love to recommend.  

Please do not forget to leave a comment below.

Ciao!

Review: Sleek Makeup I-Divine Oh So Special Palette

I have been eyeing on this I-Divine palette from Sleek MakeUP. A lot of beauty bloggers have favorable reviews about this eyeshadow palette and I couldn't wait to put this into test. I've known Sleek Makeup even before the I-Divine palette created a buzz in the beauty world. I've first encountered this brand online and in bazaars here in Manila. I'm so happy to know that they have opened up few outlets in malls.

Last week I happened to drop by Shangrila Plaza Mall and I remembered to check out The Ramp Crossings where I bought this eyeshadow palette, I-Divine in Oh So Special. I got this for only Php650. Super budget-friendly price eh?

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special

The Sleek MakeUP is a drugstore brand from UK. It has gotten popular in Philippines because it's highly pigmented and affordable. I would say that its true to its name because its very sleek so it can be stuffed inside our kikay kit and be brought anywhere.

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special

 There are 12 different palettes namely,  i-Candy, V1, Original, Lagoon, Bad Girl, Celestial, V2, Storm, Del Mar, Au Naturel, Garden of Eden, Snapshot, Sunset, Vintage Romance, Supreme and Acid. The Oh So Special is one of my favorite shade of palettes as the colours are very warm and natural, perfect for everyday wear. The12 eyeshadow palettes are combination of matte and shimmer making it a very versatile palette. I would love to use this for everyday makeup and even for wedding makeup.

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special

Each palette has 12 colours these are Bow, Organza, Ribbon, Gift Basket, Glitz, Celebrate, Pamper, Gateau, The Mail, Boxed, Wrapped up, and Noir.

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special colour swatch without a camera flash

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special colour swatch without a camera flash

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special colour swatch with a camera flash

Sleek MakeUP I-Divine in Oh So Special colour swatch with a camera flash

I can't wait to get more palettes. I am so excited to use this for personal use and for my clients. I highly recommend this product to anyone who love to put on makeup. I hope you enjoy creating as many look as you can!

 If you want to check out their products you may visit their website.

 Store locations: The RAMP Crossings Shangrila Mall, THE RAMP Crossings Glorietta 3,  THE RAMP CrossingsQ. Ave. and Circles & Dots Powerplant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City.

Ciao!
 

Best Bangs For Your Face Shape

I am not the type of person who is fond of styling my hair because I am so lazy about it. I just let down my hair and shampoo and condition it everyday. I can even go a day without combing it especially if I'm a stay at home. Just recently, I've been wanting to style it a bit because I realized it's dull and I need to do something with it. While I was browsing Facebook, I saw a photo of Taylor Swift and her hairstyle caught my attention. She has bangs and I thought she looks good with it. I love her face and I thought of getting bangs as well. The last time I ever had bangs was two years ago. So, without any hesitation, I cut my hair. Yes! You read that right, I cut my own hair! Please DO NOT ever cut your hair if you are not confident because you might regret it. But, if you think you have the skill and talent go ahead and cut your hair. But, please read this blog first so you will have idea on what bangs style will look good on you.

Okay so after I cut my hair, I searched the internet for some bangs styles and I found so many information that I didn't know before. I was not aware that bangs can really look amazing on you if it's in harmony with your face shape. I think I have oval face so I'm so happy to find out that almost any bangs style will suit my face shape. So just because bangs look good on other doesn't mean it will look good on you. 


So what are the styles of bangs? 

Blunt Bangs - Worn just below the eyebrow these forehead fringes are cut precisely straight across from side to side.

Side Swept Bangs - Cut so that the hair tapers from shorter to longer lengths and is extended generally from a side part with the hair brushed to sweep across the forehead.

Parted Bangs - Usually worn as a modified version of blunt bangs, these bangs are often cut so that they part slightly either in the middle of slightly to the side.

Choppy Bangs - Usually worn as a modified version of blunt bangs, these bangs are often cut with a scissors and then textured for a choppy look. Choppy bangs provide increased depth to the facial features.

Asymmetrical  Bangs - These bangs will have widely varied lengths with one side being a lot shorter than the other side or the middle being a lot shorter than either side.

Disconnected Bangs - These bangs encompass extreme angles that often plummet drastically from side to side. Blunt edges may be cut into the bangs at unexpected locations and lengths.

*source: www.hairboutique.com

Now, you can look at the mirror to assess the shape of your face. See the illustration below to see which face shape you have and learn what type of bangs best compliment your face.

Oblong Shape Face - Oh please do not wear longer hair because it will pull the face down making it appear even longer.  If you have this shape keep your style shorter or add shorter layers.  Adding curls and body can make the face appear wider as well. This face shape is characterized by a very long and narrow bone structure. 

Heart Shape Face - Oh la-love! I think that people who have this shape are mostly pretty and have unique beauty. Afraid to show off those wide forehead? You can disguise the width of your forehead by adding side swept bangs. Side sweep bangs are easy to manage among all other bangs style.  Keeping the style fuller around the jaw helps to add weight to the narrower chin. This face shape is characterized by a wider forehead and narrower chin. 

Round Shape Face - I bet people that have face of this shape fear to style their hair with bangs. But, fear none because there is a bangs style that will suit you. Longer hair that lengthens the face will look good on you! Long layers are the most flattering for this face shape, where short layers can accentuate the roundness of the face. Side swept bangs can also add length to a round face.This shape is characterized by a wide hairline and fullness below the cheekbones.

Square Shape Face - Do you think that blunt bangs will work for this face shape? I don't think so. It can only emphasize roundness so you better get a softer, more texture, layers, and roundness with your bang, especially if you are going for a straight across bang. 

Triangle Shape Face - I think that this is the hard to recognize shape and the most uncommon. It is characterized by a small or narrow forehead and a larger jawline. Longer styles can help disguise the prominence of the jawline.  When you consider a shorter hair cut add volume to the top in order to add fullness to the top of your face. Please avoid blunt short bangs with this face shape. Getting a wider, textured fringe can help to balance this sort of face shape. Our over-all goal with any style you choose is to minimize your jawline and add width at your temples and above.

Diamond Shape Face - Avoid heavy, straight bangs the reason is - the hairs in front of a narrow hairline usually grow upward or out to the sides so it can be a bit of a challenge to control straight heavy bangs. "Curtain” bangs is best for this face shape. A center or slightly off-center parted curtain-y bang will help maintain the silhouette of the diamond face shape and is typically much easier to control because you’re not trying to fight their natural direction so much. The diamond face shape is characterized by a narrow chin and forehead with wide cheekbones. 

Now that you have gone over the six basic face shapes and some fun tips on what to consider when choosing a style for your unique face shape maybe you are ready for a fun change influenced by your own face shape. I hope you learn something from this article. Happy styling!!!




Oh btw, this is me without bangs and with bangs. ^^

Ciao!

List Of Philippine Based Online Cosmetic Shop

I've been hunting for a Philippine based online shop that sells original or authentic US cosmetic brands like Graftobian, Benye, RCMA, Cinema Secrets, NYX cosmetics, Temptu, OCC, La Femme, Stila, Beauty Blender, Z-Palette, Urban Decay, etc. I found various make up stores online but a lot of them are based overseas. So I am excited to share with you the list of our local online shops that sell known international cosmetic brands. I can't wait to actually pay them a visit and buy my some cosmetics for my makeup kit. I can actually buy from a US store but the shipping cost is expensive that's why I looked for local online stores that sells authentic US brands. I prefer to visit a physical store where I can swatch some of the products first before buying them.

Here's a list of Philippine based cosmetics online shops by random. Check them out!

Digital Traincase - This shop offers many international cosmetic brands that are mostly used by professional make up artists. Love this shop because they know what products to bring in!  

Make Up Pro - the shop offers different international top of the line cosmetic brands. I would really love to visit soon. There are a lot of great reviews about this store. Many MUAs visit this shop to buy goodies. I am super excited.

Beauty and Minerals - if you are looking for quality yet affordable make up brushes and make up tools, you found the right shop. This shop sells Charm Make Up brushes. Love the cute girly pink charm brushes! I got the stippling brush from them but haven't been able to post a review about it.

Dollface Cosmetics -  if you want to take a look at their great products you may browse their Facebook shop or yet visit one of their stalls. They have stalls at The Ramp Crossings, Glorietta 3 and Pure Beauty, Serendra. They have good eyeshadow palettes and really affordable. I bought the 88 Earth Color eyeshadow palette and I am yet to make a review about it.

Props Tools and Cosmetics -  the shop carries its own brand for its wide selection of imported makeup products and palettes for an affordable price. So, it's the best choice for those who wants quality cosmetics at affordable price. They also conduct make up workshop so if you want to learn how to properly put make up you can give them a call and inquire.

Pretty Goddess - the shop also offers wide selection of mostly US cosmetic brands. They only have the Facebook shop. But, if you want to visit their physical shop, it's located at Pop Culture, 2nd floor, Trinoma.

Make Up Hub - the shop offers different international cosmetics brands and other beauty products. They have mostly UK's leading brands. You can also shop through their Facebook shop, Make Up Hub By Naturele Collezione.

Kiss n' Makeup Store - the shop offers great selection of US cosmetics and other known international brands. They have mostly high ends products. Their prices are a little bit high compared to other shop. Nonetheless, the shop was featured in "Kabuhayang Swak na Swak", a TV program in ABS-CBN.

Beauty Cosmetics - it's a Facebook shop that offers make up brushes. You can buy individual brush or sets of brushes. Very girly brushes...Pretty in pink! Love!

Stuff In Style - great selection of international brands that are mostly not available in Philippines. They have shops at Ebay and in other internet sites so you can find them elsewhere on the web.



There you have it! I'll update this list when I come across another online shop that sells great cosmetics. I hope I was able to help you.

 
Ciao!

Review: NYX Extra Creamy Round Lipstick

Review: NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Thalia and Paris

Okay so let me start with the description of the NYX extra creamy round lipstick from the NYX website.

"NYX Extra Creamy Round Lipstick is our classic lipstick for all-year round. The mineral-based emollient formula offers a beautiful velvet texture, saturated color and it resist wear and smudging. It's your go-to lipstick. from Pure Nude to Pink Lyric to Chic Red, Extra Creamy Round Lipstick is available in a jaw-dropping 124 shades."

Wow! 124 shades? Did you digest that? Hmmm but so far, I got 2 shades. I might buy some more in the future but let me first review these two shades that a good friend gave me on my birthday. She bought it from the NYX store in SM Megamall. NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Thalia is I think an adorable colour from NYX because it's pinky-nude and can be paired with any bold eyeshadow make up look. The NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Paris has the rose shade which is not too pink and not too light. These two colours are great for everyday use.
 

NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Paris and Thalia

NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Paris and Thalia

I personally love NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick because it is smooth and moist. It doesn't dry out my lips so I don't need to apply lip gloss or lip balm anymore. It's not too creamy or shiny but just right. This is my go to lipstick for the moment because it's easy to apply, it glides on smoothly on my lips. Although, this one requires a few more applications to get a nice solid color.

NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Paris

NYX 'Extra Creamy' Round Lipstick in Thalia

NYX Cosmetics can rival many drug store make up here in the Philippines (and yes, MAC too). It is a US brand which has become popular in the Philippines because it is inexpensive yet the quality is at par with branded make up lines. It is available online through local and international online stores that sell NYX Cosmetics. But, you have to be aware and practice caution when choosing the online shop because there are many of them that sell "fake" make up products.

Here are my PROS and CONS about this product:

PROS

    Great Color Selection
    Convenient Container
    Even Application
    Glossy Finish
    Moisturizing
    Smells good
    Blend able
    Very build-able
    Very affordable
  
CONS

    It wears off easily
    Too watery
    Needs more application to get the nice solid color


I definitely recommend this product. This is really good for personal use but definitely not applicable when applying make up to clients especially on events that requires them to look good for longer hours.


Please do not hesitate to drop me a line.


Ciao!

Review: MIZON Snail Repair Blemish Balm

Review: MIZON Snail Repair Blemish Balm


I think not all of us know about the benefit of BB cream to our face, so to give you an idea here it is.

"BB cream is promoted as an all-in-one facial cosmetic product to replace serum, moisturizer, primer, foundation and sunblock. It can be worn alone as a tinted moisturizer, over serum and moisturizer as a regular foundation, and under powder, depending on the desired amount of coverage." (source: Wikipedia)

BB creams are the biggest thing in beauty right now and you skin will look flawless while giving extra skincare benefits, too. So, as a make up artist I have to at least try some in the market. While shopping for make up, I noticed that Suesh is selling Mizon - a Korean brand. I tried one of Mizon's products - the Mizon Snail Repair BB Cream. Later, I found out that Suesh is carrying Mizon Cosmetics exclusively. I bought this for Php500. The Mizon products are really affordable yet high in quality. 

So, here are the basics about this product.

Brand: Mizon
Product: Snail Repair Blemish Balm
Shade selection: 1 shade
Key features: SPF32/PA++, 45% snail extract
Size: 50ml
Packaging: Squeeze tube
Price: Php500
Finish: Matte
Availability: Suesh Makeup Toolkit Branches, eBay, online
Would I repurchase?: Yes.

I like BB creams for several reasons. The Mizon Snail Repair BB is a multifunction BB cream since it has several benefits. It's already a tinted moisturizer with SPF 32/PA++ which will protect your skin from UV rays. It has antioxidants and skin-lightening agents. It soothes and moisturizes skin. It correct skin discoloration. It really does disguise blemishes and lighten the dark/red spots in your skin.  It also has that tightening feeling in your face and I think it's because of substance extracted from snails which I believe offers a youthful skin. BB creams can replace foundation and moisturizer depending on your skin type, you can wear them completely on their own! Plus it's long lasting so you don't have to bother with retouching.

Before and After

As you can see in the photo. It is light weight than liquid foundations but heavier than tinted moisturizers. What I don't like with BB cream is it has very limited shades unlike liquid foundations. The Mizon Snail Repair BB only comes in one shade which is lighter than my skin tone. On the other hand, it gives an opaque finish so it pretty much cover the uneven skin in my face.

For more info about the this product, read on the advertisement that I got online.

Photo credit: qoo10 shop

Please do not hesitate to drop me a line.

Ciao!

Tutorial: Simple Eyeshadow Application For Everyday Wear

Applying eyeshadow can be pretty difficult specially if you are a beginner and have zero knowledge about it. The reason I made this tutorial is to help the beginners in eyeshadow or make up application. When choosing colors, you can never go wrong with neutrals. They are perfect for everyday wear. You don't need to be a beauty guru to have beautiful looking eyes. All it takes is a little practice and more practice to be able to get the perfect blend of eyeshadow colors.

Try these simple steps of eyeshadow application and get on your way to be a beauty of envy.

1. Clean up your face by washing it or by applying facial toner. Professional make up artists prefer to apply eye primer first on their clients eyelid so the eyeshadow can hold for longer hours. But, if you will only wear it on a casual day and you have no problem with retouching your eyeshadow then you can do it without a primer. Apply a concealer on areas with uneven skin tone.

2. Choose three colors from your eyeshadow palette. You must have a light, medium and dark shade to start. If you are not sure about which shades to choose then go for the neutral shades like peach, browns, nude shades or beige. Apply the lightest color all over your eyelid and on your brow bone. Also apply it on the inner corner of your eyes to make your eyes appear fresh and awake.

3. Take the darker shade of the eyeshadow and apply it on your eyelid. This is the most common technique used for those with hooded eyes because it can make the eyelid more noticeable. Make sure to apply evenly and don't forget to blend.

4. Take the medium shade of the eyeshadow and apply it on your crease. It can help in defining the shape of your eyes. Make sure to cover the whole area of the eyeball. Don't forget to blend. For hooded eyes, it's okay to go a little bit above the crease.

5. Line your upper lash line with a dark eye pencil to make an illusion of thicker eyelashes. Just blend them out to make it appear more natural. We don't want a harsh black line on the lash line. 

6. To make your eyes appear bigger, line half of the lower lash line with dark pencil then apply white eyeliner on the lower waterline for a fresh looking eyes.

7. Curl your eyelashes using eyelash curler. To really open up your eyes you can wear falsies. There are variety of false eyelashes in the market. If you are wearing eyeshadow for a casual every day look you may opt for a not so dramatic eye lashes. For hooded eyes like mine, you can select a pair of falsies that feature long and short strands, with the longest lashes right above your pupil. But, in this tutorial, I opted not to wear falsies anymore.

8. Apply 2-3 coats of mascara and you are done.

9. The effect should be soft and natural looking eyes that you will not be afraid to wear during day time and on a casual day. You can pair it with  earth shades of lippies. You may wear this eyeshadow at night just go a little bolder by pairing it with a darker shade of lipstick.

More Tricks:

- To make eyes appear awake and bigger, apply a white or nude eye pencil on the waterline.
- Put a highlighter shade on your brow bone to add a lift to your face.
- Clean any fall outs using a wet q tip to achieve a clean crisp look.
- Invest in a good eye primer to boost your eye makeup and help keep shadow on for long.
- Brushes are equally important in making a gorgeous eye makeup. So, invest in some basic brushes.

Please do not hesitate to drop me a line.

Ciao!