[UNBOXING] Glamour Box: Flawless Beauty - September 2014

Hello Gurlfriends,

I will be doing another Unboxing and this time it's from Glamour Box! Let's begin...

If you've seen my previous blog (Unboxing of BDJ August 2014 - Luscious Locks), you'll find out that I was not able to subscribe for a September Box in BDJ. Too bad! :( Fret not ladies! I subscribed for a September box in Glamour Box. Yipee!

Glamour Box September 2014

My initial reaction would be, the box is huge, classy even! This is a lot bigger compared to BDJ's. It's measurement is roughly 8x10x2 inches. But theirs is a bit pricier, this costs me, 595php. Ooh let's check the goodies inside!

Flawless Beauty

I love that the packaging is too girly. It has this pink sheet of delicate paper with a GB sticker. Although I miss the inspirational stickers from BDJ. :( However, I commend GB for taking time to organize the items inside. The box is spacious enough so products are not squeezed in.

Curation Card: Flawless Beauty

This is their Curation Card that says a lot about the products inside including the prices. The highest priced item would be the Ofra Long Lasting Lipstick which costs 950php. Hmm, wonder what that is...

Goodies!

Upon opening the box, I immediately noticed these Belo products. I was a bit disappointed knowing that I still have these in my stash. Oh no! Listen, I love these products but they are only secondary to my regimen. I am still in love with the Garnier skin care products I have. Okay, let us not pre-judge the box. Let’s see the products one by one.

950php for 8g

1. Ofra Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick

Ohh! I love this liquid lipstick. I believe it is a new brand so I am psyched to give it a try. I heard a lot of good reviews about this so I am not yet sure if I’ll be keeping or selling this since I still have a lot of lipsticks to empty.

Laguna Beach shade

This is a swatch of the product. It dries too matte so I suggest you put on a dab of lip balm first. The shade is in Laguna Beach. If you want a natural, nude look, this is definitely a must have. I am happy that this baby is worth 950php. Just with this product, I got more than what I paid for. Although I am not sure if this is in full size because it doesn't say in the product itself. See my blog sale if you want to know if I will sell this. I am still arguing with my hoarder-self. *lol* 

160php for 1g

2. Ellana Minerals Multi-Purpose Powder in Brilliance

I am in love with the packaging of this product! It’s made with clear plastic, excellently sealed proving it's really hygienic. See the transparent plastic covering the opening? 

Brilliance shade

I haven’t tried using this on my face but this is the swatch in my hand. I can say that this mineral powder is very pigmented. Its color is sort of like bronze with gold shimmers.  It says in the curation card that it can be used as an eye shadow, eyeliner, blush, lip color, bronzer and shimmer; it really is multi-purpose! However, the color for me is too dramatic. I don’t think I can sport a look with this one so yeah! I’ll be selling this as well.

165php for 10g

3. Ellana Minerals Lip Scrub Strawberry Vanilla

This is something I could use out of the bunch. I am in love with this lip scrub! I have used it a couple of times now and I can say that it did soften my lips. I love the feeling of the sugar exfoliating my dry lips. I am prone to chapping nowadays and this has been helpful to lessen it a bit. I will definitely keep this! 

99.75php for 50ml, 79.75php for 60ml, 149.75php for 10g

4. Belo Essentials AcnePro Pimple-Fighting Gel Face Wash

As I have said, I already have this line so I am not so psyched about this. What I can say about this product though is that, it has a gel consistency so a lot of the products are gone to waste because it is so slippery to handle. What I do is I lather it using both of my hands first then gently wash my face. You will immediately feel that your skin is a bit tight after washing.

5. Belo Essentials Treatment Toner

I also have a bottle of this and I am using it as a secondary toner whenever I don’t have my HG (Holy Grail) products with me. It has this medicated scent that can sometimes put you off. But mind you, it’s very gentle on the skin. My skin feels squeaky clean after application.

6. Belo Essentials Pimple Gel

This is kinda cheap compared to other brands but I did not notice any changes when I first used this. I don’t want to judge the product by not giving it much time to get used to my skin so I suggest you use this for a couple of months to see if it benefits you.

Note that I can’t say much if these Belo AcnePro products have done drastic changes to my skin with regards to my acne because I am using these hand in hand with other products from another line. All I can say is that it suits my skin. It did not cause me any breakouts. 

Sample Size, roughly 144php for 90ml. 275php for 440ml Full Size.

7. Tresemme Smooth and Shine Shampoo and Conditioner

I got these in sample sizes so I don’t find these really useful although I can bring this with me whenever I am travelling. This has been out in the market for a couple of months now so I have already used this line before. I am still in love with Dove though, when it comes to hair care.

Sample Sizes, Full Size is 695php each for 30ml

8. Beauty Republic Original Dramatic BB Tinted Cream and Dramatic Green Touch BB Tinted Cream

Whew that was too long for a name!. *lol* It says in the Curation card that they gave these as bonus. Well, they should have included these in full sizes. *demanding? lol* I am not even sure if this will cover my whole face. Oh well I still can’t give a review for this one because I haven’t used it yet. I am planning to give these away in my blog sale since it might cause more irritation to my skin. I want to heal my acne first before I apply makeup on. It interests me that these are made from Korea so I bet it's gonna be great! Ohh they also included this coupon from Carmen Claire where in you will be able to get %15 off with your entire order.

My Thoughts?

Honestly, in general, I am not so thrilled about what I got this month with Glamour Box. It would have been awesome if only these products are exactly what I need. Also, they should have included products that are still new to the consumers. Unlike these Belo and Tresemme products that are already out in the market for a couple of months now. I want to be able to get something unusual, not something I can easily grab in the market. Although, thumbs up for Ofra and Beauty Republic items. I give this box a rating of 7 because most of it, I would just sell in my blog sale.  

Visit my blog sale and get these fab products at insanely discounted prices.

Also, visit Glamour Box website and Facebook page:

   

 'Til my next Unboxing!

Stay fab everyone!

xoxo,

Ish

[Foodie Escapade] Frank & Charles Review

Hello Gurlfriends!

This is my first ever foodie review! This has been in my laptop for a couple of months now. This happened in July, apologies for the late post. Let's begin...

Forgive this blurry picture :)

Food has always been our passion, my husband and I. So whenever we see a new restaurant, we make sure that we try it out by hook or by crook. There’s this one Saturday where we stayed in their house in Taytay for the night. I woke up the next day seeing my Hubbi drooling, while eagerly telling me that we should try this new restaurant that he discovered hidden behind Puregold. *well not literally* Gosh I am famished! So I rolled out of bed, not even wanting to take a bath first *gruesome, lol* and together we head on to this resto.

I was amazed of how sleek and classy the restaurant looked. The design and and concept of the restaurant was a fair mix of modern finish and army barracks grille diner, full of corners and edges.

They also have this Mighty Tower Burger Challenge. A stack of six, 2.5oz all meat patty topped with a pack of mushroom, oozing with melted cheese in 3 minutes!?! Ooh that’s nothing! I can finish that thing under a minute! *glutton mode on*

They also have this cozy spot outside for drinkers and smokers. *that's a lot of ashtrays!*

I love the contrast of the colors, it’s just that their chairs are not comfy enough. Ooh my butt hurts just by staring at them!

I love these framed messages, it justifies your “katakawan” at the same time makes you feel sinful!

That’s my Hubbi right there ordering. Seems like he rolled out of bed too. *lol*

Spot the not! Hello Kuya!

This is their menu. They offer a lot of varieties in good prices. 

This is their condiments area. Yeah you read it right! It’s self-service my dear, so stop bumming and get that catsup! 

I love these gigantic bottles by the way, I believe it’s Heinz. They should have included Tabasco here instead of Mother’s Best. *lol demanding?* My only issue here is that they don’t offer mayonnaise! That one thing that I crave for, and it’s not here. Too bad! Oh well, at least they are generous with the other stuff.

Hawaiian Aloha

So here’s my order. It's Hawaiian Aloha for 145php with drinks and fries. Ooh we opted to drink water instead. I believe you can truly taste the food when you just take it with water, not soda or anything overpowering. Plus, it’s healthier too! The price is just right for the serving. So let’s go and try this burger out...

Dig in! 

It is heavenly! Two thumbs up for this. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the salty meat well. I believe they mixed beef with a bit of pork so as to make this baby tender and juicy enough. *sounds like a brand of hotdog* Seriously though, I can say that the meat is grilled perfectly. Not too dry, just the right amount of moisture. And the Hollandaise sauce, ooh! I love it! You taste a mixture of sweetness, saltiness and sourness all at the same time. It’s amazing! I finished the whole thing without even noticing! The size of the burger is just right for me. Good thing it included fries that satisfied my manly appetite. It’s a bit oily though, but hey! that's something you would crave for when it comes to fries right?

I believe the mother of the owner was the one who handed me these disposable gloves. Thank you madam! Maybe she noticed how starved I am that I am ready to get down and dirty with bare hands! True enough, it has gotten so messy, thank you for these gloves I got away with mess that easily.

Shirley’s Garlic Chicken

My husband gave that Shirley’s Garlic Chicken a try. Mind you, it’s just 125php for 2pcs of chicken! I tasted it as well and again, it’s awesome! You can really taste the garlic with a mixture of sweetness and tanginess from the sauce. I am not sure if it’s barbecue but it tastes exactly like the Hollandaise sauce in my burger. It really is “A taste of homemade pride”. We are so happy with the food. 

This is the aftermath! *lol*

Yes we can get messy most of the time. That's how we enjoy our food. 

Good ambiance, good food, good price. Their staff is great as well; they really help you out in case there's something you might need. I asked a staff about the mayonnaise just to make sure and he politely answered. 

But it’s not over yet! I needed to check the rest room! It has always been my pet peeve to see the rest room first before I can truly rate a restaurant.

All clean with tissue and bidet :) Love the topiary arrangements here. 

Clean, but I dislike the hand liquid soap.

Yes I am wearing my Hubbi's shirt! Forgive my messiness in this picture. *lol*

The rest room is so clean. I love this graffiti where it says "BIG FAT LIE - Diet" So honest! Even in the rest room they want you to forget your healthy lifestyle. *lol* My only complaint is their hand wash. It should have been something nicer and more fragrant. I believe this is a dish washing liquid? Oh that's just me. I have a thing for fragrant hand liquid soaps. I know for most people it doesn't really matter. 

Overall, with that great experience, I give this resto a rating of 8, 10 being the highest. Keep it up Frank & Charles. We'll definitely come back.

Update: Upon writing this blog, we already came back to this resto and ordered other dishes. Again, they were sumptuous. Too bad I left my cellphone in the car so I didn't get to take pictures. Quality time with Baby first before duties. *lol*

Visit their Facebook page for their contact details and location.

Hope you enjoyed this Foodie Review. 'Til next time!

xoxo,

Ish

[Journey to Acne-Free Skin] Garnier: Pure Active Anti-Imperfections Cooling Roll-On Product Review

[Started using this since July 18, 2014]
[Reviewed this product on September 13, 2014]

*Note: Sorry for the late upload but I give products ample time to get used to my skin so I wait for a month or so to write a review. That way, purging stage (skin's initial adjustment period) is over and I can now share my experience in full detail.*

Skin History

  
     Year 2009, I used to take protein shakes in the hopes of gaining a little weight. *I used to be so thin!* They say, with a gift comes a curse. So the curse came, my zits, but never the weight. Argh! I stopped taking those protein shakes and my acne immediately began to tone down. This year May 2014, after getting stressed of doing deliveries, we have a flower shop by the way, my break out started again! This time with a huge comeback! Believe me, my skin condition is far worse today than what it was before.

Ever felt like people are staring at your pimples whenever they see you instead of them focusing on your assets? No matter how perfectly long your lashes are, how gorgeous your eyes are, how plump and glossy your lips are...all of your zits are still the ones getting the limelight!

I've experienced all these and it's depressing almost heart breaking especially when your acne is at its severe condition. It's kinda lame knowing that I am not like this before. :( But I am still hopeful; I know, one day, I'll be back to my old self. *lol* Enough with the dramas! 

Ever since my break out started, these acne treatment products began to catch my attention. So join me on my journey to acne-free skin...Let's start with this product shall we?

I bought this from Watson's together with other Garnier products. This caught my attention the most since I am dying to get rid of my acne.

Product Claims

The proven power of:

• Purifying Salicylic Acid: one of the most efficient anti-bacterial actives, in maximum concentration to help control oil and reduce imperfections.
• HerbaRepair: a natural origin active ingredient extracted from blueberry with regenerating and repairing properties for anti-dullness action.

Usage:

Ingredients:

240php for 15ml

My skin profile 

Oily in the T-zone area

I am now, acne-prone!

Dark spots takes about 5 months to totally vanish *it sucks big time*

Large pores in the cheeks area

My Experience:

Pros:

• Cooling sensation upon application. This gets addicting, seriously. You would want to re-apply all the time just because you want to feel the cooling effect.
• It causes peeling around the dark spots. This is a plus for me knowing that it can easily renew my skin cells. I am prone to dark spots and this product helps in fading them away.
• Great for treating mild acne. A zit is about to show up on my face and I immediately applied this on. The next day, it’s completely gone!
• The idea of a roll-on is brilliant! You don't have to worry about your dirty hands getting on your face so you can apply it religiously. Although, you should clean the metal ball first before application. You wouldn't want the bacteria spreading all over your face now, would ya'?. Never ever share this with others, although I am guilty of sharing this with my Hubbi. He loves the cooling sensation; however, this is not suited for his sensitive skin. It aggravates the condition.

Cons:

• Be careful when applying, for it can be painful due to its stinging sensation. It can cause you to tear a bit even if you just applied it near your eye area. It’s bearable though.
• I hate its smell but it’s tolerable. It has the same scent with their Pure Active Toner that somehow reminds me of Muriatic Acid with a bit of fragrance. However, my Hubbi loves it. He keeps on telling me how good it smells.
• It reddened my cystic pimple on the third day of application. It's not consistent with all of my zits since it somehow aggravates the others and tames down the most. It immediately heals those pimples that are mild but is having difficulty in drying up those that are already inflamed.
• This can be sticky as soon as it dries up and leaves a shiny mark on the applied area. It’s barely noticeable and is better than having a white film on your face brought about by acne creams.
• Its peeling effect becomes noticeable when powder is applied. 
• Not suited for people with sensitive skin.

Warning: Grossness overload! Don't say I didn't warn you...

Actual Results:

My zits! *Argh*

After 2 weeks

After 3 weeks

Quick Tips

·         I apply it directly on my zits generously and religiously. Whenever I feel like the product has been removed due to getting oily or sweating, I apply it again. If ever you experience peeling and it becomes visible, apply this product again on the same area. It lessens the look of peeling skin.

·         Leave it inside the freezer for about 5 minutes for a more cooling effect. I have mine in an air-conditioned room so it feels extra cold whenever I use it. Not sure though if it will affect the consistency or effectiveness of the product.

  Ratings

Verdict

This product is best used for reducing dark spots and treating mild acne due to its peeling action. However, this is not suited for cystic acne. Most of the time, this is the root cause of my reddened, aggravated zits so I end up pricking the zit which is a no-no! *I know that right*. After that, I apply this, and immediately it dries my pimples out.

Will I purchase this again? Absolutely!

Here's a proof of my addiction to this product. This is now officially a part of my Holy Grail. :) I consumed two already in a span of less than two months. Take care, Garnier...*lol*

Lemme know what you think about this product. I would love to hear from you!

'Til my next review!

xoxo,

Ish