Review: Kiss Me Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara

Hi guys, 

I know I’ve been M.I.A. for a while now but I’m back with some excellent products for review which I'll be blogging about for the next couple of weeks, starting with a wonderful mascara from Japanese drugstore brand, Heroine Make by Isehan. 

Heroine Make is a popular brand in East Asia and it’s now available at SM Aura’s Watsons. The signature blonde anime model graces the mascara packaging with her long thick lashes which is what you can also expect with yours. 

The mascara is said to give you...

DRAMATIC LENGTH

Advanced polymer coating contains Super Long Up Fibre (1.5 times longer*) that clings tightly to each and every lash from root to end, creating lengthening action of up to 120% without clumping. 

*compared to previous formula of Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara. 

LONG LASTING CURL

High power curl setting polymer keeps lashes at maximum curl all day.

WATER PROOF TYPE

Offers high resistance to tears, perspiration, water and sebum for comfortable and long lasting beautiful lashes!

REVIEW

I thought you should know that I don’t really like wearing mascara often for fear that my lashes will fall off (I blame this on Majolica Majorca mascaras which work so well but makes my lashes fall off). But, I can't seem to get enough of Heroine mascara. I find myself using it on a daily basis because I’m flat out impressed and it doesn't make my lashes weak and brittle. 

One swipe and it lengthens and thickens my eyelashes to the point that it looks as though I’m wearing lash extensions.

I do, however, find that this mascara becomes clumpy if applied too much. It also seems to smudge in the heat but only a little bit. Despite all this, I'm happy with the product because it gives such a dramatic effect to my eyes.

*When I'm in air conditioned areas, the mascara doesn't smudge. 

I will suggest that if you buy this mascara, make sure you have an oil-based makeup remover because it can be very tasking to remove.

How to use:

Curl your lashes (root to tip) before applying the mascara. Place the brush on the base of your lashes and apply upwards for extra curl. To create density, apply more coats. One coat usually does the trick for me. 

TIP: If you find your lashes to be a little clumpy you can use a spooly to comb through your lashes for a natural finish. 

Packaging:

The product comes in a total of 6g. The packaging is adorable and particularly lightweight. I didn’t have any trouble removing the mascara from the hard plastic covering as well. 

Pros

• Makes lashes appear like you’re wearing lash extensions or falsies
• Lasts all day
• Lightweight and cute packaging

Cons

• Smudges in heat (tiny bit)
• Tends to clump if you add more coats (but can be fixed with a spooly)

Price: P595.00

Review: Pasjel Silverpink Mask

Thai brand, Pasjel, recently launched their premiere line with the Silverpink Mask. I came across it at snowprincess_mnl’s clearance sale and because of my fondness for skin care masks, I decided to try it.  

What separates this peel-off mask from others is its ability to tackle several skin problems at once. Its potent formulation is said to revive, moisturise, tighten, smoothen, and lessen the appearance of wrinkles. Some of the ingredients are as listed below:

1. Nicotinamide - blocks and neutralises inflammatory acne and hypersensitivity. 
2. Sodium Hyaluronate Molecules - acts as microscopic fillers that treats and prevents wrinkles and rough skin. 
3. Hydrolysed Collagen - tones and tightens skin
4. Urea - a powerful and naturally occurring hydrophilic skin moisturiser that keeps the skin hydrated, making it soft and supple.
5. Panthenol - a natural humectant that locks moisture for 24 hour skin hydration.

Other ingredients include Vitamin C, Kaolin, and Allantoin which all promote natural skin healing. 

Other info

• Results are seen 24 hours after using the mask.
• Tested and marked 100% safe.
• Not tested on animals.
• No steroids.
• No harmful compounds. 

*Contains perfume

REVIEW

I have a couple of general observations that I want to point out. First, opening the tube was very messy as the product clung to the twist-off cap. It didn’t do well for my slight obsessive compulsive ways. 

Second, the size was much smaller than I had anticipated. The net weight is at 20g and this product is meant to be placed all over the face. You’ll probably only get 3 or 4 uses out of this tube. 

Third, I find it quite pricey for its size. P850.00 (clearance sale price) for 20g. 

This is how it looked when I opened it the first time.

The recommended use of the Pasjel Silverpink Mask is twice a week. My experience during both trials have been different so I will be reviewing them separately.

First Trial:

Upon placing the product on my face, I felt a little sting in my eyes. I didn’t place the product anywhere near the eye area in case you were wondering.

Its scent was also piercing and unappealing. I think the formulation may have been too strong for me which is why my body reacted in such a way. 

I continued to use the product nonetheless just to see how it would fare. After a few minutes, I began to feel my skin tighten. 

I left it on for 30 minutes after which I peeled it off. The peeling process was difficult and painful as the product had clung tightly to my skin.

Results, however, were good. My skin felt smooth, tight, and soft to the touch. 

Second Trial:

To be honest, I was pretty hesitant to try it out the second time around but I felt like giving it the benefit of the doubt. 

The experience was actually much better. It didn’t sting my eyes anymore and the scent, although still unappealing, wasn’t piercing. I left it on for 30 minutes after which I peeled it off. The process was again, quite painful and difficult to remove. 

Results were positive. Skin felt tighter, softer and smooth to the touch. I also observed its effects 24 hours after and my skin still felt soft and supple.

Overall, I feel that the product does work but there are other products that give the same results that aren’t as uncomfortable to use the first time around. 

How to use:

Apply all over face and wait 15-30 minutes. Peel off after.

Use twice a week.

Packaging:

The product comes in a 20g tube container. The general look is cute and simple while the material is high quality. Despite its superficial appearance, opening the tube can get a little messy. Upon opening the product for the first time, I found the product had clung to the crevices of the twist-off cap which was disappointing. 

Pros

• Effectively tightens the skin 
• Makes skin smooth and soft
• Effect is long lasting

Cons

• Formula is quite strong - stings my eyes when applied (initially)
• Smell is also slightly piercing (initially)
• Product came out messily in tube container
• Perfume scent is unappealing although lightly scented
• Pricey and very little product content

Price: P850.00

How To: Clean Your Makeup Brushes

There are two ways to clean makeup brushes: deep-cleaning and spot-cleaning. The first entails having to wash and dry your brushes while the latter is a much simpler method which requires a brush cleaner and tissue paper. 

Why clean your brushes?

It’s simple. If you’re a painter, it would make sense to clean your brushes after painting so you can reuse them again. Otherwise, the paint which remains on the brush will dry up making it difficult and even impossible to use. The same concept applies to makeup brushes except this time, think of the paint as the makeup product. If you let the product sit on the brush for long durations, bacteria and dirt will cluster on the bristles which can transfer to your makeup products and infect your skin. So, play it safe and devote five minutes of your time to spot-clean your brushes everyday and an hour to deep cleanse when you have more time to spare. 

How to spot-clean?

There are several brush cleaners available in the market which you can purchase. The more popular brands are the MAC Brush Cleaner and Parian Spirit. 

MAC Brush Cleaner is available at all MAC stores. This product comes in 235ml.

This one product will clean, disinfect and condition the brush fibers so that brushes will last longer. It is convenient to use and is specifically designed to extend the life of high quality brushes. Brush Cleanser leaves your brushes smelling fresh and clean, and helps shorten their drying time.

Parian Spirit, on the other hand, is available at Suesh stores (SM Megamall, Trinoma, Greenhills, Market!Market!) 

I use this one more because it comes in bigger sizes and is relatively cheaper compared to the MAC brush cleaner. 

Note: If you live near a makeup school you can also check if they sell brush cleaners as they usually do. I got my Beauty So Clean! Brush Cleaner from Makeup Design Academy. They also sell one which you can use to sanitise your makeup products. 

Instructions:

Place some of the cleaner on a tissue paper and rub the used brush bristle against it in a circular motion. You’ll see its effects immediately as the product from the brush transfers to the tissue. 

When there is no longer product transfer then your brush is ready to use again.   

It's a quick way to get your brushes clean in an instant. Professional makeup artists actually use this method when they need to clean their tools in-between clients.

How to deep-clean?

Deep cleaning your brushes is much more tedious but necessary. It gets the dirt and makeup that couldn’t be removed by spot-cleaning.

What I usually do is after spot-cleaning my brushes, I wash the brush with soap (which I specifically use for cleansing brushes only) in the same manner as I would spot-clean.

I rinse the brush first then rub it against the soap in a circular motion until soapy. 

I then rub the brush on my palm which helps clean the bristles

then squeeze the excess water and soap off. If makeup residue is still present, I simply redo the process until there is no longer any product that comes off when rubbing. 

When drying your brushes place them upside down so water can trickle downwards instead of staying inside the brush. This will promote longevity for your brushes. 

There are also other ways to deep clean your brushes that are available online. A popular one is by using olive oil and shampoo. The olive oil conditions the brush hairs while the shampoo helps clean it. I’ve tried this before and it also works but I find it easier to use soap instead. 

I hope you found this post helpful! 

BESOS,

Bambi xx

Review: Nature Republic’s Snail Solution 80 Ampoule Special Set

A lot of the skin care products that I’ve grown to love over the recent years have mostly revolved around snails. The secretion from these wonderful molluscs has proven to be a very effective remedy for various skin problems. I’ve grown so fond of it that I find myself gravitating towards different snail products from different brands. 

It was, therefore, a no-brainer that when I went to Nature Republic, I glued myself to their snail skin care section, which is where I found the Snail Solution 80 Ampoule Special Set. 

The main product of the set is the Snail Ampoule which contains 80% snail secretion filtrate. Hence, the number 80 printed on the bottle. The other two items that are included are sample sizes of the Snail Solution 90 Skin Booster (90% snail secretion filtrate) and the Snail Solution 80 Emulsion. Both these samples are also available in regular sizes.

Each of the items in the set aims to brighten the skin and improve on wrinkles. I applied all three products, one after the other, after cleansing my face and using toner. I will, therefore, be reviewing them as a whole rather than individually. 

REVIEW 

A common characteristic of snail products is how instant its effects are. Upon first application with these goods, my skin immediately felt more refreshed and revived. The products promptly hydrated my skin, leaving it smooth and supple.

I then observed its effects the next morning before washing my face and was impressed to find how even my skin tone looked. There was less oil than usual and my pores were ridiculously tiny that I couldn’t even really see them up-close. I continued using this set for my day and night skin care regimen for a week now and I’m very happy with the improvements it has made. 

My skin feels a lot suppler, looks very clean, even, bright, and smooth. My pores are almost invisible up-close and overall it has effectively hydrated my skin.

I should also mention that these products have a very pleasing scent. Not too strong and quite calming. 

How to use: 
There are instructions at the back of the box that tell you how to use the product but I found it a little incoherent as to which needed to be used first. Based on what I've read, I simply came up with a sequence that I hope is the correct way. I use the Skin Booster - Emulsion - Ampoule in that order after washing and toning my face. I apply the products by patting it on until it's fully absorbed by my skin. 

Packaging: 

The set comes in an elegant earth-friendly box. 

Both the emulsion and skin booster comes in 30ml plastic containers which I honestly find difficult to use. It was quite challenging trying to get the product to come out without having to exert much effort. The best way was to shake the product to the lid part before opening it. 

The ampoule which also comes in a 30ml size, was simpler to use. The lid is basically a dropper which picks the thicker consistency of the ampoule with ease. 

Pros

• Easily absorbed by the skin
• Effectively moisturises and revitalises
• Smoothens skin
• Softens skin
• Greatly decreases appearance of pores
• Brightens skin
• Smells great

Cons

• A little pricier than I would have hoped for 
• Impractical design of the Skin Booster and Emulsion

Price: P1,795.00

Review: GLORIA GARCIA Moisturising Cream

The GLORIA GARCIA moisturising cream, just like the other GLORIA GARCIA products from my previous blog, is infused with the powerful and restorative effects of the olive fruit. The product contains a high amount of Vitamin E which makes it a great moisturising agent for the skin. It also contains Vitamin A which is a powerful antioxidant and known for its reparative properties. Suitable for all ages and skin-types. 

GLORIA GARCIA carries two moisturising creams in her Olive Oil line, a day moisturiser and a night moisturiser. This one in particular is for day use as it contains SPF 15 so you won't have to worry about applying sunblock after. 

It's like an all-in-one moisturiser for those who don’t have time to slather different products in the morning. Plus, it's all-natural and not tested on animals. 

REVIEW

I used this product for over a week now and one thing that I noticed about this moisturiser is how well it works with makeup. The consistency is rather rich and this helps it blend with foundation seamlessly. It’s like an added moisture boost for your makeup. Even with powder applied over it, my skin still looked very fresh, especially in photos.   

On its own, the product works just like any moisturiser would. It keeps the skin hydrated throughout the entire day without you having to reapply anything. 

It does, however, make my skin look shiny because of the oil content. To lessen the appearance of shine, I simply placed a thin layer of the product on. 

To help you better visualise the effects of this cream, I find it synonymous to Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream. They're both very rich and potent moisturisers that work in restoring the skin from inside out. GLORIA GARCIA's Moisturising Cream is a toned down version of the 8 Hour Cream but synonymous nonetheless and without the stickiness. 

Another thing that I noticed is that it also has a very lasting effect. At the end of the day, when I remove my makeup, my skin still feels soft and smooth. It looked great from start to finish. 

How to use: 

After washing and toning, apply this product by placing 5 dots on the key areas of the face (forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin). Massage until the product is spread throughout then pat onto skin until fully absorbed. 

*Be careful not to over apply especially in hot weather conditions. 

Packaging: 
The packaging is simple, elegant, and top quality. The product comes in a 50ml glass-type container with a twist-off lid. 

To observe proper hygiene when using this product, I suggest using a scooper to get the product from the bottle and closing the lid immediately after to avoid any contamination from the air.

Pros

• Effectively moisturises (very potent)
• Long lasting effects
• Includes SPF 15
• All-natural ingredients
• Not tested on animals
• Works great with makeup

Cons

• Can make the skin look shiny unless placed thinly.

Price: P1,320.00 

(VIBER Bambi at 09177962239 to purchase)

Review: GLORIA GARCIA Body Milk and Massage Oil

I was first introduced to the brand several months ago by my Tita from Spain, who raved about the effectiveness of Gloria’s products. It was so effective that she had me try some that she had brought back to Manila. Specifically, the Body Milk and Massage Oil. 

Before I continue with my review, here’s a little introduction to what makes GLORIA GARCIA so special.

GLORIA GARCIA is a skin care brand that mainly uses olives, a naturally abundant fruit in Spain, in formulating their products. The brand utilises both the olive leaf and oil which have beneficial properties that are good for the skin. 

“The extract of the olive leaf is one of the most active vegetal hypotensors and extra virgin olive oil is the richest oil in vitamins E, A, D, and K. It thus has antioxidants, hypotensive and vasodilatory properties. The use of the basic essences of the olive in the GLORIA GARCIA product line provides an exceptional capacity for moisturising and for protection from external environmental factors in every one of the products, thanks to its high content of antioxidants.”

Aside from the fantastic restorative functions that her products have, they’re also hypoallergenic and have not been tested on animals which is a great deal for a pescatarian/vegetarian like myself. 

I tried both of the products my Tita brought over and used them after every bath. Applying the body milk first before massaging my skin with the oil. What I noticed after was that the products had lasting effects on my skin. It’s not like how other lotions and oils only work to temporarily moisturise. The GLORIA GARCIA products actually made my skin feel like it was “getting better” or restoring itself from the inside out. I say this because I had really dry skin before and no amount of lotion and oil made a lasting impression. 

PRODUCT REVIEW 

I. GLORIA GARCIA Body Milk (lotion)

“This creme has a vasodilatory capacity. Activating the micro-circulation of the skin. This causes the immediate effect of better blood flow to the surface and increased skin metabolism, as well as a renovation and rejuvenation of the same. This body milk created with the extract of olive, helps to firm the tissues of the skin, as well as nourishing and toning it. Provides maximum firmness and elasticity to your skin, especially in those areas that are suffering from looseness.”

*Suitable for all skin types

*Not animal tested

*Contains perfume

This lotion has become one of my favourites because like I mentioned above, it works really well in restoring the skin from the inside out. It also has one of the best consistencies in lotion history. A lot of lotions out there feel very heavy and sticky because it contains more oil than water. This one seems to balance the best of both worlds. It isn’t too liquid and it isn’t too creamy either, and when applied, feels very soothing. The product is also immediately absorbed by the skin leaving a subtle healthy skin glow. 

How to use: 

Apply a sufficient amount on your palm and massage onto skin. Best used after a bath. 

Packaging: 

The GLORIA GARCIA Body Milk is packaged in a simple yet elegant 200ml plastic bottle. Very easy to use and practical for the shower area. 

Pros

• Effectively moisturises 
• Easily absorbed by the skin
• Heals dryness from inside out
• Long lasting effects
• Leaves a subtle healthy glow
• All-natural ingredients 
• Not tested on animals

Cons 

• Strong scent

II. GLORIA GARCIA Massage Oil 

“This massage oil created with virgin olive oil is an exceptional aid for relaxing both muscles and nerves thanks to the vitamins in the oil itself. The ingredients in this massage oil have been developed so that the oil will have the consistency and provide the perfect degree of friction to last throughout the massage session.”

*Suitable for all skin types

*Not animal tested

*Contains perfume

You can tell if oils are effectively absorbed by the skin if the layer you applied disappears after a few minutes. If the shiny oily layer still remains even after 5 minutes then it means that the molecules of the oil are too large to pass through the skin’s outer layer rendering it useless. That’s how I know that GLORIA GARCIA’s oils work. They are immediately absorbed by the skin leaving a smooth and subtle shine without the sticky residue. It’s also very lightweight and comfortable. 

How to use:

Apply a sufficient amount on your palm and massage onto skin until the oil is absorbed. I technically used this like a body oil because it’s what I had but it works the same. Massage it onto the skin after placing lotion for that super healthy skin look. 

Note: If you add too much you may need to wipe off the excess with a towel. Don’t worry, you’ll still have that healthy sheen after. 

Packaging:

The packaging for GLORIA GARCIA’s Massaging Oil is similar to that of the Body Milk. Elegant and simple. Though I have to point out that because this is oil we’re dealing with, the packaging can also get oily. Simply wash the container off with soap after using it if you want to keep it clean. 

Pros

• Effectively moisturises
• Easily absorbed by the skin
• Leaves a healthy glow on the skin
• All-natural ingredients
• Not tested on animals 

Cons

• Strong scent 

Where to get in the Philippines?

Unfortunately, this product isn’t available in the Philippines. I had to order it from Gloria Garcia herself in Spain. But, because I love you guys so much, I bought a few extras to sell. I also got some of her other well-loved products to test so watch out for those in my future reviews!

Prices:

Body Milk - P975.00

Massage Oil - P729.00

How to buy: 

Send me a message through Viber! 0917 796 2239 

If you want to know what other GLORIA GARCIA products I have on hand just let me know as well. 

Payment method: Bank Deposit

BESOS,

Bambi xx