The highlighter used to be just an afterthought for the average makeup lover, but it broke out a few years ago as a bankable category with fans waiting for the shiniest releases. Now it has become an important part of any kikay kit. If you’re in the market for one, we’ve compiled of our favorite spend and save options, so you’ve got no excuse to walk around without an angelic gleam. Shine on, you mythical creature!

SPLURGE

TheBalm Mary Lou-manizer (P1,025, Beauty Bar) This soft-focus gold powder is a cult favorite for being finely milled and highly-pigmented. It offers an excellent balance of color and shimmer, allowing it to successfully double as eyeshadow.

Pixi Flawless Beauty Primer (P1,360, Glamourbox) Though the name isn’t a major indicator, this primer illuminates the skin with a soft and shimmering peachy finish. It’s a subtle effect that gives skin a fresh and dewy look if you want to break the matte monotony.

Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder (P1,750, Rustan's) As with most baked makeup, the texture of the powder is on the drier side instead of buttery or soft but it isn’t gritty at all. Highlight-01 is the only highlighting shade from this line as the rest are bronzers. It provides a highly reflective, super pale beige shimmer.

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed (P1,943, Sephora PH) With Becca, you can get your shimmer on in three ways! The brand has their cult shades in Pressed, Poured, and Liquid formulas. The highly-pigmented powder only requires a light dip in the pan to catch just enough color for that sexy dose of shimmer. Go for Opal, a warm champagne that should work well with any skin tone.

Left to right: Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Lilac Rose, Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal, Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder, Benefit Watt's Up, Benefit High Beam, Pixi Flawless Beauty Primer, TheBalm Mary Lou-manizer

Benefit High Beam (P1,400, Benefit) Bask in a pretty, pearly pink! The shade will give you the aura of a total sweetheart. High Beam can be used to emphasize the pinkness of your blush, though take care not to blend with too much pressure lest it causes makeup to cake. You can also apply it under your base makeup for a touch of dewiness.

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick (P2,400, Rustan's) This is probably one of the most well-loved highlighters in the world, and for good reason. The baked five-toned powder is considered one of Bobbi Brown’s all time bestsellers, and it delivers a luxurious sheen that diffuses easily. Despite what you see in the pan, the coloring of the Shimmer Brick in Lilac Rose (pinkish) isn’t as intense as it looks.

SAVE

City Color Glowing Complexion Illuminating Cream (P299, BeautyMNL) This underrated brand hit a home run with a liquid highlighter formula that manages to sit well on top of powder. Initially, we expected that it would be an illuminator that would perhaps produce a mild dewy effect under foundation but it was a pleasant surprise to see how pigmented and shimmer-packed the rose gold liquid turned out to be!

Pink Sugar Sweet Cheeks HD Blush (P499, SM Beauty) Pink Sugar doesn’t skimp out on the flashy highlights. Despite the name, Sin City looks like the epitome of an angelic glow. With its gold shimmer pigments on your cheeks, all you're missing is a halo.

Revlon Highlighting Palette (P625, department stores) Bronzer, highlighter, blush, and eyeshadow in one go? This palette does it all. As a bronzer, you don’t need a lot to get the warmth going. You may also mix and match the individual shades to create a legit eye look. The shade Bronze Glow is morena-compatible, and can pass off as a dupe for the Bobbi Brown Bronze Shimmer Brick.

Left to right: Happy Skin Glisten Up! Highlighter Cheek Stick, Sleek Highlighting Palette (2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th), Revlon Photoready Skinlights, Revlon Highlighting Palette, NYX Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator, City Color Glowing Complexion Illuminating Cream

Happy Skin Glisten Up! Highlighter Cheek Stick (P799, Happy Skin) This local brand is known for its crowd-pleasing products, and their stick highlighter is no exception. Aside from coming in a travel-friendly medium, the champagne beige shade with a peachy tinge and white shimmer is appropriate for all skin tones.

Revlon Photoready Skinlights (P825, department stores) Trying to fight a flat-looking foundation? This is where Revlon’s liquid illuminator comes in. It leaves a warm, bronzy glow that makes skin look more alive. The formula/consistency doesn’t sit on top of powder well though, so make sure to dab it on before setting your makeup.

Sleek Highlighting Palette (P875, department stores) Want all that insta-glam in one place? Get yourself a versatile highlighter palette like Solstice from Sleek. It features three powder highlighters and one cream to cover all the bases. There’s a pink one with white shimmer, a champagne-peach, a light gold, and a pearly beige (cream highlighter) for any theme or palette you decide on.

In2It Pear Powder Bricks (P549, department stores) If you're unwilling to smash up eyeshadows in the name of our magical DIY, you should definitely check out this option. The rainbow combination immediately draws the eye from the sea of brick highlighters, and you can use each shade individually if you’re in a funky mood. Though each shade has a distinct color, they are mixed with enough shimmer pigment to produce subtle coloring. When swirled together, the bricks produce a pale, lilac-tinged shimmer.

Discuss:

• Which of these picks caught your eye?
• Have you tried any of these before?
• What's your currently fave for getting your glow on?

photography by Sam Gonzales

I've been a micellar water user for years, but it's only recently that the price has become much more competitive. Before, the most affordable micellar water was Bifesta at P419 for 300ml, but that's not exactly cheap for something that simply takes off makeup. Then Biore came out with a P189 water, but it only contained 100ml for the price. Bifesta was P1.39 per mil while Biore was P1.89. Let's not even begin to talk about Bioderma - it's awesome but even I would not buy it so long as I have access to Bifesta.

Now there's a new player that seeks to dethrone our favorite drugstore waterrific makeup removers: the Maybelline Micellar Water. It costs P199 for 200ml, which means that it's roughly a peso per mil. Honestly, I was a bit untrustful of this particular micellar water because I'm loyal to my Japanese makeup removers, but the feeling was unfounded. Maybelline's play as your new favorite makeup remover might just be in the bag.

The brand's micellar water is scentless, alcohol- and oil-free. It doesn't sting my eyes (though it might sting yours, if you have particularly sensitive eyes). It doesn't leave a filmy residue once washed off so I feel confident that I can sleep in it if I absolutely have to. However, I would still use a facial wash afterwards just because. 

Is it effective in removing tough makeup? Naturally Maybelline's micellar water can not take off waterproof mascara, but I tried it on other forms of waterproof and water-resistant makeup below. After three swipes, it has taken off the pigmented blush, water-resistant mascara, and waterproof eyebrow makeup. It had trouble with the rest of the makeup though (waterproof eyeliner, liquid lipstick, concealer, and lip liner), needing about 10 swipes to erase them completely. But they were gone after some careful and gentle rubbing.

Certainly the Maybelline Micellar Water is effective in removing long-wearing, heavy makeup, but you must be more patient with the process compared to Bifesta (still my favorite). I think it has a much higher water content and less of the main main solvents (hexylene glycol and glycerin), so it takes more time to dissolve the cosmetics off your face. 

It's not that much time, though. If you're on a budget and want something that works, doesn't irritate the skin, and is quite pleasant to use, I think you won't be disappointed with this super affordable makeup remover. One bottle should be good for about 4-6 weeks of everyday use. ^_^

Discuss:

• Do you use micellar water? What's your fave?
• Is makeup remover something you would splurge on, or do you think there's no need to spend much?

compiled by Gett Baladad, contributor

Maybe you woke up late, and you’re pressed for time to do your makeup. Or you really want to use your cute new purse but only have room for three products. It can be difficult to have to curate your look to just three essentials but the PV team decided to take on the challenge and nominate which three products we just can't live without!

Liz: My top three essentials would be a brightening base with SPF, eyebrow pencil (or pen), and a moisturizing lipstick. Right now my favorites are the Origins Smarty Plants CC Cream with SPF20 since it makes my skin look great without any coverage, the Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil for quick full brows, and the Burt's Bees Lipstick in Sunset Cruise since it's a beautiful shade with a moisturizing balmy texture.

Den: When I'm in a rush, I really do just apply three things to my face. I use Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Repair CC Cream SPF30 to moisturize, protect, and even out my skin. The tint is very light so I don't even have to worry about blending it properly! I tend to look pretty pale though so I can't skip my Happy Skin Get Cheeky With Me blush in Summer Fling. I apply it just below my cheekbones so it also gives a slightly contoured effect. Finally, as a PV girl, I make sure my brows look lush but groomed with K-Palette Liquid 2 Way Eyebrow. As bushy as my brows are, I sadly have sparse areas that I've only been able to successfully cover with this HG brow product!

Diane: I use MAC Studio Fix Powder to even out my skin tone and dab Benetint on my cheeks for color. I currently love Happy Skin's Bulleye Perfect Trio. It's my go-to product to achieve perfect brows because it already has a pencil tip, a powder tip, and a spoolie brush.

Kim: This is really hard because even on my most 'natural' days, I'd still be using around five or six products. If by some bad joke I am forced to cut down to three, I'll go for a cushion foundation, brow pencil, and mascara (tough choice between lipstick that could double as a blush, but I figured I'll just bite my lip and slap my cheeks for color). So my three product face would be made up with the L'Oreal Lumi Cushion in W3, Heroine Make Eyebrow Pencil, and the Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara!

Renee: I have pretty bad dark circles so I have to have a concealer. I stumbled onto the Careline concealer in Chestnut (P95) during one convenience store run, swatched it and never looked back. It is surprisingly creamy for the price and matches me to the T. My other picks would be the City Color Be Matte Bronzer in Chocolate Truffle for cheekbone snatching purposes or lightly applied all over the face for warmth, and the NARS Illuminator in Orgasm that I would probably carry to my grave, just in case.

Charlie: I can’t leave the house without fixing my eyebrows because they’ve gone crazy, and right now my best bud is Witch Pouch’s Easy Drawing Gel Eyebrow. It stays on all day and it’s the right shade of brown for me. When in a hurry, I usually just put on my Naturactor Powder Foundation. It doesn’t have much coverage but it evens out my skin and makes my dark circles look less scary so it works. And my lips, being super dry, need constant moisturizing. Currently, I’m loving a couple of Burt’s Bees lip balms.

Crystal: Whenever I'm in a rush to get out of the house, there are three things I'll reach for. I get a powder with good coverage like MAC studio fix powder, a bright lipstick like NARS Schiap, and a brow grooming product like Snoe Eyebrow Gel. This is one of my favorite brow products because I can get away without using a browcara.

Jordianne: My go-to look when I only have two minutes to get ready needs just three products: one for the eyebrows, one for the lashes and one for the lips. I use the e.l.f. Treat and Tame for my brows. My favorite mascara is the Covergirl Lash Blast Volume mascara, but I'm currently using up the Brow Lash Ex Lash Sculpture mascara, which works really well. As for the lips, my go-to is the Wet N Wild matte lipstick in Bare It All.

Angela: I use KJM Lip and Cheek tint Bittersweet Magenta on both my lips and cheeks. I then put Maybelline Clear Smooth All-In-One Powder Foundation. It's really good and affordable! Lastly, I use Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm so my lips don't get dry or chapped.

Marianne: When I'm pressed for time, I just focus on a clean face, groomed brows, and a pretty pucker. For my face, I use the Nivea Men Post Shave Balm, which is popular online for being a primer - but this doubles as a moisturizer, too! Then I prefer using a pencil product for my brows so I can vary the opacity easier; Nature Republic's By Flower Wood Eyebrow is my fave. Lastly, I use NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream because I love the formulation, and it sits really nicely on my lips. Budapest is my current favorite shade.

Katsy: Right now my three product face would be this - Avon Ideal Oil Control Pressed Powder, Daiso Eyebrow Pencil, and a lipstick that may/may not double as blush. Current fave lipsticks are Guerlain Automatique in Roselip and By Terry Dare to Bare. I find that I can easily apply these products in the car, and the finished look is enough to make me look polished for meetings.

Marielle: The idea of shaving down my whole routine to three products freaked me out a little bit, but I've always had an idea of what makeup I could survive on. For my base, it would be a powder foundation to cover up and remove shine, like Silky Girl Silky White BB 2-Way Powder + Foundation in 01 Light. I can't be without eyebrows, so K-Palette's Lasting 2Way Eyebrow in 102 Natural Brown is my immediate pick to help with mapping and filling. To color lips and cheeks, Pink Sugar's Queen Bee Sugar Tint is the gorgeous multi-tasker for me. 

Stacie: On a non-school day, I only wear Heroine Make Mineral BB cream, which has light-medium coverage to cover my broken capillaries and even out my complexion. I define my brows with Etude House's Easy Brow Pencil, and use a tint on my lips and cheeks. I currently have Tony Moly's Liptone Get It Tint, which is really pigmented and not as drying as other tints.

Gett: My default makeup consists of filled-in brows, concealed skin, and lipstick (usually something red or dark). I use Nature Republic Auto Eyebrow Pencil to lightly fill in brows, and Pink Sugar Our Li’l Secret Concealer to conceal spots and blemishes. Then, I’ll use a lipstick like Besame Cosmetics 1946 Red Velvet lipstick. I like how it has a square tip which makes it easy for me to make precise lines with a red lipstick.

Sam: If I had to, I'd go with a customizable concealer like the Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, which I'd be able to use for spot coverage and all-around coverage mixed with moisturizer. Its two pans will make it possible to highlight with concealer, too! Then I'd go with the Sleek i-Divine Eyeshadow Palette in "Oh So Special" (rather than more adventurous palettes) because not only is it pretty, it's also pretty versatile! I can do my brows with the brown-black shades, eyes with everything, and some contouring and highlighting as well. Lastly, I'd pick a dark mauve-y shade like Bite Beauty's Pomegranate, which I can wear as is or mix with my concealer for a nude pout (or even some eyeshadow to create more looks), and cream blush. But only if I had to.

Claire: Whenever I'm in a rush, I always, always reach for my Laneige BB Cushion. It has great coverage and lasting power even if I don't set with powder. I'll be fine as long as I have blotting paper. For lips and cheeks, Nudestix's Double-Ended Lip + Cheek Pencil is a great option for effortless color. For eyes, I was so torn between a brow product and a mascara but I figured I'll be happy with my lashes as long as I have my lash curler. I love using The Face Shop's Designing Eyebrow Pencil for that natural brow look I often go for.

Karla: It'd be the Bobbi Brown corrector in Bisque, Make Up For Ever Aqua Brow, and Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Outlaw!

Can you survive with just three products? Which ones would you include in your three-product face? 

compiled by Karla Aguas, contributor

With all the updates and upgrades, the beauty world is always buzzing with news and reviews on the latest hot new trend. It can sometimes be a bit too much and a little overwhelming, so what better way to get the low down on what’s hot, what’s not, and what’s trending with a little Beauty Roundup?

We're feeling nostalgic for our childhoods with a new Sailor Moon makeup release, baffled by a clay pot you can use for your lips, and lemming for the best new budget brushes!

Image via sociorocketnewsen.wordpress.com

Relive your favorite childhood cartoon with Sailor Moon glosses

Remember when all you wanted to do was don that signature blue and white uniform and throw your hair up in pigtails? You can do your share of being a champion for good while keeping lips in top shape with Sailor Moon Romance Communicator Lip Glosses!

The adorably-packaged pigmented goodness is the latest addition by Premium Bandai, following the success of the anime-inspired eyeliner and face powder release. There are five gloss tint options for each of the Sailor Soldiers, and you can strap on the compact with an accompanying wristband to make toting around so much easier (and cosplay-worthy). You can already pre-order the entire set (about $62) and expect your shipment by September!

Full story on Rocket News 24

Image via noonnabalsy.com

Beauty in your pottery

The latest (or should we say oldest?) discovery in the beauty world is a clay pot that you can use as a lip stain. Called "Aker" or "Aker Fassi", this North African beauty hack makes use of the natural dyes in a pot made from red ochre terracotta that's been blended with powdered rose petals, or poppy and wax. Mixed with oil or water, the powder turns into a bright red cheek and lip stain that provides the perfect natural flush. 

This currently retails at about £8 and so many beauty lovers have been going gaga for it. We can't help but wonder how good this weighty addition to a kikay kit might be!

Full story on Marie Claire

Image via cosmopolitan.com

The best (and prettiest) budget brushes

The best makeup isn't always the ones with the highest price tags, and the same can be said of makeup brushes. Finding a brush that is vegan, cruelty-free, insanely soft, and beautiful to photograph is definitely possible even for gals with a limited budget! e.l.f.has revolutionized luxe, quality brushes with the introduction of a new collection featuring picks that are only $5-$12 each!

The 9-piece "Beautifully Precise" line includes a powder brush, airbrush blender, airbrush stipple, sculpting brush, eye shadow brush, smoky smudge brush, dual-sided eyebrow brush, eyeliner brush, and the most interesting one in the collection: the Multi-Blender Massager. It sort of looks like a paint brush but it's perfect for blending in foundation, powder or blush with its curved bristles. The silver and clear acrylic handles look absolutely gorgeous, too!

Full story on Cosmopolitan

Image via thoushaltnotcovet.net

Highlight your geekiness

Take your makeup to the next universe with the latest collection care of MAC Cosmetics! Known for their crazy and fun collaborations, MAC has announced the Galacticly Great Star Trek Collection in honor of the 50th anniversary of the pop culture phenomenon. It includes 25 new pieces ranging from nail polish to face powders, lip glass to lipsticks, and even eyeliners and eye shadows! 

With quirky names, crazy shades, and all around sparkle, the collection honors and celebrates the amazing female characters of the Star Trek universe. Watch out for its official release on September 1!

Full story on PopSugar

Image via wwd.com

Falsies that'll set your heart a-flutter

They say that the eyes are the windows to our soul, so what better way to emphasize them than with a flirty fringe? Sephora teamed up with lash genius House of Lashes to create a limited-edition collection of falsies! The three designs are named Everlasting, Timeless, and Seductress - and will cost you $14 dollars each. These lashes are exclusively sold at Sephora.

Full story on iFashionNetwork

A video posted by Farah D (@farahdhukai) on Jul 28, 2016 at 10:46am PDT

Oil you need for dry lips

Have you ever gotten super dry and chapped lips that even your favorite lip balm couldn't help? Instagram beauty gurus swear by facial oils! We've spotted quite a few videos demonstrating just how powerfully potent they are at imparting much needed moisture so our lip colors glide on like butter. Check out our list of the best facial oils if you wanna give this a try!

Full story on Look

by Diane Salazar, contributor

Applying liquid eyeliner can make a huge difference to your look. Compared to pencil liners, the wet formula makes it easier to create crisp lines with a more intense pigmentation. With a good liquid eyeliner and decent application skills, you can even fake your way to lusher-looking lashes without mascara!  

It takes lots of practice to perfect the right shape and line thickness for your eye shape, so more affordable options are ideal. Being on a budget doesn't mean you have to scrimp on quality though, as you don't want to end up with a product that stings, smears or simply makes putting on liner even more difficult. We list eight liners we love that won't budge or break the bank!

(Click the links for the reviews we have so far)

BCL Brow Lash Ex Water Strong Slim Liquid Liner (P500, select department stores)

Conveniently packaged in a twist-up pencil, this eyeliner gives smooth and extremely pigmented lines. It also has an ultra-slim tip, which you can easily manipulate to vary the thickness of your lines. If you're prone to tearing up, this has a highly resistant formula that stays put after application. Liz swears it can last almost the whole day!

Etude House Proof 10 Gelquid Liner (P498, Etude House)

Is it gel or is it liquid? This weird hybrid formula works great though, as it doesn’t smudge regardless of heat and sweat. It feels a bit creamy (gelquid-y?) upon application but dries pretty quickly, so you don't have to worry much about stopping yourself from blinking after putting it on.

Left to right: Prestige Line & Style Ink Pen, Maybelline HyperSharp Liner, Holika Holika Magic Pole Eyeliner, BCL Brow Lash Ex, Tony Moly Perfect Eyes Long Kinny Gel Pen Liner, Etude House Proof 10 Gelquid Liner

Prestige Line & Style Ink Pen Extreme Long Lasting (P595, Beauty Bar)

This pen features the usual felt tip but only the base stays stiff. The rest is bendy enough to easily follow the curves of the eye. The ink is quite pigmented, and can withstand an entire day of humid weather without smudging. 

Tony Moly Perfect Eyes Long Kinny Gel Pen Liner (P498, Tony Moly)

For monolids and hooded eyes that can't take thick lines, the extra-fine point of this liner is perfect for applying just enough eyeliner without covering too much of your lids. You can also change the angle you hold the pen to make it create bolder lines. The slim tip makes lining a bit easier, so you may want to try this out too if you're a beginner.

Maybelline HyperSharp Line Black (P378, department stores)

Want an easy intense eye look? It promises ultra-sharp and precise lines with the help of its 0.05mm fine tip. The color payoff is great, and it gives a super rich, shiny line that lasts a good amount of time.

Left: Holika Holika Magic Pole Eyeliner, Right: Masx Factor Masterpiece Liner

Holika Holika Magic Pole Eyeliner (~P500, select SM Department Stores)

The odd-shaped ball tip may be puzzling but it actually works well as an applicator. This is perfect for those who are just learning how to apply liquid liner; it's designed to be dotted into the base of the lashes and then connected with small lines. That way you don't have to do one big sweep until you're ready!

Max Factor Masterpiece High Precision Liquid Liner (P450, department stores)

The paddle-shaped tip is another oddity that may take some getting used to, but it's great for creating both fine and graphic liner styles. The black formula glides on smoothly, dries quickly, and can be used even by those with sensitive eyes!

Have you mastered your eyeliner game? Do you prefer pencil, gel or liquid formulas? What's your current fave eyeliner?

I got to see a sneak preview of the Burt’s Bees Lipstick last year, and back then I couldn’t believe that the brand - well-loved for its skincare and sheer lip balms - could succeed in the color cosmetics category. It was risky play for the Clorox-owned company. What do they know about makeup, anyway? Quite a bit, I'm surprised to find out!

The Burt’s Bees Lipstick (P795) is the brand’s first true full-coverage lip color line. There are 14 shades available which range from browny nudes to dramatic darks. Yes, for real! The colors are well-picked and quite trendy, although I don't see them looking dated for a long while. They're the kind of shades that should stand the test of time.

But that isn't the best thing about the product, for me. It's how pigmented AND moisturizing it is at the same time. It's like lip balm, except it's got pretty sweet coverage! Granted you have to swipe heavily a couple of times to get complete opacity, but even the nude colors show up quite well even without a base. I'd say the only exception (out of the nine tubes I have) is Iced Iris, since it is a very pale pink. It can look streaky on darker lips.

Here are my color notes!

Blush Basin is a pinky nude, while Suede splash is a browner, warmer version. Iced Iris as I mentioned above is a rather pale pink. It might work for lighter skin tones! Sunset Cruise is my favorite - it's a beautiful peachy pink I can just slap on everyday. Lily Lake is also a top pick as it is a lovely mauve pink that should be flattering on morena skin as an MLBB. 

Magenta Rush is a bright yet medium-toned pinky magenta. It does make a full-bodied statement! Scarlet Soaked is a tomato red. Juniper Water and Russet River are the darkest shades; I love them both as they are so sophisticated and on-trend! Juniper Water is a deep wine while Russet River is a deep, rusty oxblood red.

Click on the pictures to see a bigger version

Staying power is average at 2-3 hours. They are balmy lipsticks, after all, and don't quite dry up. I like it that way though, because sometimes (especially in colder weather) I NEED a lipstick that will not require a separate balm to properly function. If I want longevity I can always wear these on top of a lip liner.

I like that the lippies have a natural, mild waxy smell. They feature castor oil and beeswax prominently and do not have any perfume added. They are also tasteless.

I have to mention the packaging: it's a light plastic with a honeycomb design on the cap. It looks heavy, but there is no heft. I love the look of it but one does have to be careful in putting the cap back - the lipstick does not retract all the way down.

Overall, I highly recommend the Burt’s Bees Lipstick to anybody who likes seriously moisturizing lipsticks that won't fail in terms of coverage. I mean, you won't get matte lipstick-level coverage of course, but I think the lip swatches will speak for themselves. My faves are Sunset Cruise, Lily Lake, and Juniper Water! Check 'em out in the nearest Beauty Bar branch! You can also get Burt's Bees online at their website and Zalora.

PS By the way, I am holding a special workshop for Burt's Bees! The workshop is happening on August 20, 4-6pm, at Rustan's Shangri-La.

To join, just get P2,000 worth of Burt’s Bees inclusive of any Burt’s Bees Lip Color and sign up for the Burt’s Bees Colour Workshop. You may claim your instant gift** during the event! Hope to see you there. ^_^

*Only confirmed sign-ups will be considered part of the workshop. Confirmation shall be made 1 week prior to workshop date.

**Gift includes one (1) cosmetic pouch and one (1) Lip Color

Let's talk about an adult topic this time: vaginal tightening. This is typically promised by sketchy soaps and gels, but what if there was a procedure that could actually do it without surgery? I learned that Marie France's FemiLift technology uses a laser that can help tighten things down there with the least amount of discomfort. Here are five things you'll be interested to know about FemiLift! 

1. It is recommended for women who want to tighten up after giving birth, those who have urinary incontinence due to stress, and those who wish to increase their sexual pleasure. There are several reasons a woman might chose to stimulate vaginal tightening. It could be for medical, aesthetic, or sensual reasons, but it is not for us to judge what a woman wants to do with her body. FemiLift can help with a variety of issues and it's always good to have options.

2. FemiLift is a quick and painless procedure. It involves a laser wand being inserted in the vagina and rotated at intervals for only 15 minutes. It is said to feel warm, and does not require any anesthesia. The laser is designed to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the vaginal walls, causing them to contract and tighten.

3. The procedure is done only by gynecologists, and not just aestheticians. Marie France is serious about their clients' privacy and comfort, and only hires professionals they can consult with for any concerns. The gynecologist will first screen the patient for suitability to the treatment before anything else.

4. Three sessions are recommended for best results. These sessions can be done a month or two apart. The second session is usually where the patient will notice a marked difference. After that, the area will need to have a touch up after a year or two (it depends per case).

5. FemiLift is safe. As far as I understand, the laser does not venture up into the bladder or ovaries. It is FDA-approved and is apparently already pretty common in the US. Of course, consulting with one's doctor is always a good course of action before undergoing any procedure. It would be wise to take one's own medical history into consideration before doing the treatment.

FYI. ^_^  You may call Marie France at 894-2639(BODY) or visit their website for more information.

This story is brought to you by Marie France.

by Gett Baladad, contributor

Let’s be honest here: there are days when you can be pretty gross. Maybe you’re at a music festival or a camping trip, or perhaps a long flight, where you don’t have access to a shower. Maybe you like working out but there’s a long line for the gym showers. Or maybe the weather is so rainy and cool that you can hardly bring yourself to get out of bed (amen). Whatever the reason, there are times when bathing isn’t an option, but no one has to find out about your dirty little secret. Here’s how to stay fresh until you can finally hit the bath!

Spray on dry shampoo

Unwashed hair can easily turn into a greasy, smelly mess if left unchecked. Spritz on the TONI&GUY Dry Shampoo (P990, BeautyMNL) to absorb oil and refresh your tresses. Dry shampoo is the secret to having fabulous second-day hair, especially if you need to extend your blowout! Make sure to spread it well though to prevent any streaks, or get a tinted formula that can blend with your hair color and make it look even more lush.

Add life to your locks with a conditioning hair mist

While you don’t want your locks to look greasy, you still need them to stay moisturized. Human Nature’s Natural Conditioning Hair Mist (P249.75, humanheartnature.com) keeps them looking healthy and shiny. Jojoba oil locks in moisture into place without it weighing your hair down, while the floral scent keeps it smelling good.

Refresh your kili-kili  

The underarm area is prone to stink because the bacteria in your sweat gets trapped and produces a nasty odor. Cleanse the area with some wet wipes then spritz on Dove Advanced Care Ultimate White (P195, supermarkets). This also helps in lightening underarms, so you’re hitting two birds with one stone!

Try an instant shower spray

When it comes to dealing with body odor, most people try to simply mask it with a ton of perfume. Problem is, the stink is still there and simply mixes with perfume to create an even weirder smell! Get rid of it permanently with Snoe Stink Positive Instant Shower Spray (P1199, snoebeauty.com), which neutralizes odors. You can use this on yourself, your clothes, your man, your car and anything else that makes you scrunch up your nose.

Swipe on micellar water

Skipping the shower doesn’t give you a free pass on keeping your face clean! Micellar water is your best bet for removing oil, dirt and makeup.  Maybelline’s Micellar Water (P199, BeautyMNL) is gentle on the skin and easy on the wallet!

Hilamos in a can

Micellar water is actually enough to get your face clean, but sometimes it doesn’t feel “complete” without the refreshing sensation of water on your face. Your skin can also feel irritated from the lack of proper cleansing so give it a quick, soothing rinse with Avene Thermal Spring Water (P500 for 50ml, drugstores). Let it sit on your skin for a minute or two before wiping it off with tissue or a face towel.

Discuss:

• Have you ever been in a situation where you couldn't bathe?
• What did you do and use to keep yourself feeling clean and refreshed?

There are many combinations for achieving flawless skin. My preference is a brightening, sheer liquid (could be in cushion form) as my base, concealer for my blemishes, and finally a high-coverage powder foundation to set everything. I don't really like to spend so much time layering tons of product on a normal day so a three-piece combo works best for me. These simple steps get me both the glow and coverage I need in under five minutes.

Now lately, I have been enjoying the Lancôme UV Expert CC Cover and the Lancôme Blanc Expert Brightening Powder Foundation together. These make my skin look fantastic and are probably the most transfer-proof out of all my current bases. I mean, I wear these to tennis sometimes and my face does not melt off on my towel when I pat it dry. It would smudge but compared to other combos it won't just slide away. I couldn't believe my eyes at first but yup, the CC cover and powder don't come off easily.

Here's a quick rundown of both products!

What I love about the Lancôme UV Expert CC Cover (~P2,500):

• It's a sheer, glowy base that evens out dark areas in one layer.  It also makes skin look plumper and more youthful.
• Its easy to blend using just fingers, and a little goes a long way.
• It boasts of SPF50 PA++++! That's pretty good protection. Of course, you'd still need to wear proper sunscreen underneath but if you're not out in the sun terribly long, this would do.
• It comes in four shades - Natural Nude, Fresh Rosy, Flawless Bright, and Light Beige. My best match is Natural Nude although it takes a few minutes to adjust to my skin tone.

What I feel it can do better:

• This can feel a bit thick, unlike other CC creams I've tried. It has a hydrating feel to it but if you're oily this might not set on you properly.
• It has a sunscreen scent. It's quite faint but for a high-end brand I would expect it to be rid of it as some people might not like it. I personally don't mind though.

What I love about the Lancôme Blanc Expert Brightening Powder Foundation (P2,150 for the refill, P700 for the compact):

• This powder is incredibly silky and finely milled. It has mid to heavy coverage, but looks like skin! The finish is demi-matte I'd say.
• Since the power is so pigmented, very little goes a long way. I have been using my compact pretty regularly for about two months now and I haven't made a dent yet.
• I found an almost perfect shade match in O-04.
• Stays on for an impressive amount of time. I don't notice it fading on my combination skin until the seventh hour mark. I would get oily though.
• This does not easily transfer on clothes and tissues. It would smudge on white surfaces of course but minimally.
• Features SPF35 PA+++. Always good to have that extra layer of sun protection!
• The compact is insanely cool. There's a mirrored flap with the Lancôme rose covering the powder, and the sponge area has holes so it won't stay moist.

What I feel it can do better:

• If you have very oily skin, I would recommend wearing a primer and blotting when you need to. I think this powder is best for combi to dry skin as it has a creamy, high-emollient texture.
• The sponge is super soft and a dream to work with but it has a tendency to "eat" the product.

I would say while the CC Cover is pretty good, the Blanc Expert Powder Foundation is HG level. I would most likely repurchase it when I run out! I don't mind splurging on products I know I'll use daily or at least fairly often in rotation with other HGs.

Let me know what you think of both! You may find Lancôme in Greenbelt 5, Robinson’s Magnolia, Rustan’s Shangri-La, and Rustan’s Makati.

Lancôme UV Expert CC Cover ingredients

Lancôme Blanc Expert Foundation ingredients

by Charlie Esmerna, contributor

When Elle Woods set her sights on having her Chihuahua’s mom at her wedding, she hired a private investigator to find her, stormed in the V.E.R.S.A.C.E animal testing center to call them out for testing products on animals, and basically turned Washington DC inside out to have a bill passed against animal testing. But Legally Blonde 2’s sugary happy ending barely touched the surface of a broad topic. Being cruelty-free as a brand is more complex than simply having a bunny logo on the product packaging.

Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde (MGM)

What does it mean to be cruelty-free?

In basic terms, being cruelty-free means a brand did not test their products on animals at any stage of production of their items. “Cruelty-free”, “Does not test on animals” and “Against animal testing” all mean the same thing. The logos and wording may differ according to the certifying body – and yes, brands can’t make these claims or use the logos with proper certification.

There is also a difference between being “cruelty-free” and “vegan”, the latter term meaning that it doesn’t contain raw materials that are produced by animals. It can be surprising to realize that many cosmetics actually use animal by-products such as: natural makeup bristles (from squirrels, minks and horses), the pigments in blushes and eyeshadows (from pearls and crushed bugs), lotions (animal-derived glycerin), shampoos (animal-derived keratin) and even beauty supplements (animal-derived biotin and collagen).

The three bunny logos you should check for (Image via crueltyfreekitty.com)

If it has a bunny logo, does that mean it’s alright?

Unfortunately, that’s not a guarantee. Just like “authentic” replicas, cruelty-free logos can be stamped on without undergoing proper certification. Also, while the brand may not have been directly involved in animal testing, it may not be able to guarantee that no third party animal testing was involved or that the ingredients used were not tested on animals.

Accrediting companies like PETA, Leaping Bunny, CCF and others try their best to assure that these technicalities are covered but a large part of the credibility profile lies on the brands themselves. It’s not unusual to hear about certifications being revoked because brands continue to perform animal testing in other territories that do not have bans in place. Currently, animal testing is illegal in places like the European Union and India. In the Philippines, Republic 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act does not expressly ban animal testing.

Human Nature is the first Filipino company to receive Cruelty-Free recognition from PETA

Should you make the switch?

Subjecting animals to testing products is a complex and sensitive topic that requires more than just a quick read. Cruelty-free certifying companies encourage consumers who support non-animal testing to do their research and contact the brands themselves to find out their policies against animal testing. Some companies who perform animal testing do so because of legal requirements, but are working towards regulatory change and developing tests that do not involve animals.

EcoTools uses soft synthetic taklon bristles and recycled aluminum ferrules in their signature bamboo-handled brushes

Which beauty brands should you consider?

Cruelty-free: Human Nature, a local brand that carries well-loved natural products like Sunflower Oil and other beauty and skincare items is one of PETA’s recognized cruelty-free brands. Pink Sugar, carrier of some of the best lip and cheek tints and matte lipsticks, is another. Other local brands are Happy Skin and Zenutrients. ELF Cosmetics and The Body Shop are also proud of the fact.

We promise to make a more comprehensive list when we finish calling up most of the local brands we are in contact with.

Vegan: Ecotools produces brushes that are loved by many, not only because they’re soft and actually perform well, but also because they’re also vegan.

LUSH has a cruelty-free and ethically-sound beauty philosophy, and follows stringent measures to uphold it 

Cruelty-free and Vegan: Great-smelling soap and bath bombs from LUSH assures cruelty-free products and 100% vegetarian ingredients. They even have dedicated an explanation on their site, and have labeled items that are vegan. Avalon Organics, which is known for their shampoos and shower gels, features the Leaping Bunny logo and uses 100% vegetarian ingredients. 

If you want to check if your favorite brands are cruelty-free, you can search for them in these online databases:

• Leaping Bunny Compassionate Shopping Guide
• PETA’s Cruelty-Free Company Search
• Choose Cruelty-Free List

Have you made the switch to cruelty-free products? Was it difficult to find alternatives? What are your favorite cruelty-free brands?

Cover image by Maira Sansuste

Further reading: PETA, Important New Info for Caring Consumers, Cruelty-free and Vegan Logos Explained, EcoTools, Human Nature is PETA Approved

by Sam Gonzales, contributor

For many beauty lovers, the search for the best eyebrow product ends when they finally try the K-Palette Lasting 2-Way Eyebrow. If you love this stuff as much as we do, you've got Cheryl Chua, President and Brand Manager of Beautybox Corp., to thank for bringing this Japanese brand to the PH. She's also responsible for bringing in our fave exfoliant Cure Natural Aqua Gel, the gel moisturizers and face masks of Kracie, the amazing shampoos of Himawari, and most recently, the ultimate cure for cracked feet, Baby Foot! 

We got to chat with Cheryl, who shared with us about how her kilay obsession led her to start her own company and onto the road of success. Read on for your daily dose on inspiration!

How did you get into managing a beauty brand? Have always been interested in makeup even before you got started?

Being an avid shopper myself, I've always been interested in the retail industry. That's why it was natural for me to gravitate towards this industry in terms of my professional career. My interest in cosmetics is average, but if you ask my friends, they would tell you that I have always had a serious case of eyebrow fetish and obsession. 

Combining my love for retail and eyebrows brought about Beautybox Corp. The company was established in 2011 for our very first brand, K-Palette, and it was brought about by the encouragement of my husband, Richard Chua Jr., to come up with a business that we could call our own. He handles the business side while I do the marketing side. We started the company with just the two of us. I still remember those days when we had to do everything ourselves. It is with much fondness when I look back — to see our company grow, we now also have Cure Natural Aqua Gel, Kracie, and Baby Foot under our distribution arm. 

Beauty Box Corp.'s first event

What was your first ever project as a beauty brand manager? What was it like handling such a project? 

My first ever major project was in 2012. This was when we officially launched K-Palette to the bloggers. I have always handled the merchandising side of the brands so mounting an event was completely out of my league! I remember conceptualizing it and not completely knowing if what I was doing was right. I just knew I had to do it because there was no one else who would do it from my team. To this day, I am still baffled that that event was mounted just by me and my husband!

What does your normal work day look like? What's your favorite thing about your job?

On a typical work day, you’ll see me juggling between home and work. The day starts with me sending my kids off to separate schools, hitting the gym (this is non-negotiable), rushing over to the office, and then hurrying back home to assist my kiddos with their schoolwork. When they've both settled down for the night, my husband and I finally get some peace, quiet and quality time. We make sure to talk and share with each other the highlights and other memorable moments of our day.

My favorite part of my job is when I get to meet new people and instantly hit it off with what I call the "brow talk" moment! It's amusing and flattering at the same time, especially when newfound friends would send me photos asking me if they did their brows correctly. It's like an ongoing eyebrow workshop via Viber, Whatsapp or Facebook Messenger!

Cheryl with her Beauty Box team

What are your toughest work challenges? What do you wish more people knew about your job?

It's tough to be competing side by side with bigger cosmetic brands. It is a challenge to sustain and market a product with limited resources. Ingenuity is not impossible but very demanding, budget-wise.

I wish people knew that handling a beauty brand is not all glamour. It is very fast paced, dynamic, and backbreaking. It also requires a great deal of tenacity. When you want to get something done, you have to brave it and get out there!

What are the greatest lessons you’ve learned from being in the beauty industry?

The best learning I've gained is that nothing beats a good product. The product should speak for itself. Product hype dies down, and marketing can only take you so far, but a product that truly delivers can take you miles! It will always outshine all the other competing brands. Thus, we are very meticulous in selecting the brands we carry. 
 

Her skincare is #goals

Tell us about your skin care routine and what your daily makeup look consists of. Do you have a a signature makeup look?

My dermatologist advised me to only use Asian skin care brands because, as Asians, they suit us best. My favorite brands include Cure Natural Aqua Gel, Hadabisei, Cle de Peau, Shiseido, and SKII. I do a six to seven-step skincare routine at night, and sheet masks are a must for me every night!  I do a simplified version of it in the morning since I am usually in a rush to start the day.

Such well-curated essentials!

As for makeup, I always go for the classic and polished look: very soft natural-looking brows, eyeliner, light mascara, and minimal blush. I finish off with my all time fave gloss/balm from Dior.

What do you think are the most underrated products from your brands?

It would have to be K-Palette's Zero Kuma Concealer and Baby Foot Peel. Though K-Palette is primarily known for its eye and eyebrow liners, the concealer is also a wonderful product and can hold its own. While the Baby Foot Peel may look painful during the peeling stage, it's actually painless and it delivers what it promises!

[Editor's note: We showed all the gory and fascinating details about Baby Foot here! IT WORKS.]

What is your beauty philosophy? How do you apply this to the way you live your life?

Always take care of yourself because when you look good, you feel good. This will help you do your best in everything.

Hope you were inspired by Cheryl as much as we are!

Discuss:

• What is your dream business? Any plans to pursue it?
• What's your fave product from Beauty Box?

by Charlie Esmerna, contributor

I’m not gonna lie: it feels like there's a new beauty trend or makeup technique every week that it can be difficult and overwhelming to keep up! If there's one technique that I really enjoy and love to use though, it would definitely be contouring. It gives a little warmth of color to my face and a bit of definition to my features.

I go through contouring products faster than I do anything else, and it can get pretty expensive at times. If you have a contour addiction as I do or want to practice your strokes without breaking the bank, we've got some contouring picks under P900 that will surely get your approval and your wallet’s, too!

Fashion 21 Blush Duo

Shawill Perfect Powder in 003

Fashion 21 Blush Duo (P145, department stores)

The small size makes it look more like eyeshadow, but the colors are spot on: the soft, matte brown and light brown both work well as contour powders for fairer skin tones. You can opt to use the darker shade to create a well-defined shadow, the lighter shade for a more natural finish, or lightly combine the two to get somewhere in between. And because the shades are slightly bronze-y, you can use them for a sun-kissed look as well.

Shawill Perfect Powder in 003 (P168, department stores)

When I first saw and swatched this compact, I knew off the bat that I had found my new favorite contour powder! It had the perfect taupe contour shade and was well within my budget. Although it’s a bit powdery and you’re bound to make a bit of a mess when loading your brush with the product, it blends well into the skin and it feels a bit velvety. 

Ellana Minerals in Light Roast (P299, ellana.com.ph)

Mineral makeup is known for having highly pigmented formulas, and this powder is no exception. Light Roast is a warm bronze-y shade that must be applied with a light hand but in case you put too much, the smooth velvety texture allows it to diffuse quite easily. Originally sold as part of a contour and highlighter duo, it's currently sold as a single pan and suits a wide range of skin tones. 

Tony Moly Crystal Blusher in #7 Bronzing Brown (P328, Tony Moly)

Believe it or not, this "blush" has bested other high-end and well-known brands in Get it Beauty, a Korean beauty show that has a blind product test segment. Though it looks almost light beige in the pan, the color builds well and easily blends into the skin for a natural-looking contour. It's a great pick for beginners and gals who can be heavy-handed with their application.

Pink Sugar HD Cheek Blush in South Beach (P399, department stores)

This product's subtlety makes it one of Liz’s favorite contour powders. The light taupe shade can be used to apply barely-there contour, or layered for more intense definition. Word to the wise: it's a cheaper shoo-in for NARS’s much-coveted Laguna Bronzer!

Catrice Sun Glow Matt Bronzing Powder (P399, department stores)

The product name's quite a misnomer: despite the "matt" description, it’s actually armed with a bit of shimmer. The warm brown shade works well whether you use it as contour or a bronzer, and the small flecks of shimmer give skin a gorgeous glow.

City Color Contour and Define Palette (P550, BeautyMNL)

This is the perfect palette for gals who love bringing a kit that has everything but don't want the weight or bulk. Contour is a warm brown shade while Bronzer is a lighter, buttery shade of brown. Liz uses both shades for contouring different parts of her face, which allows you more control and produces a more varied depth to the features.

Honorary mention: Sleek Face Form Contouring and Blush Palette (P875, department stores)

You'll get bang for your back with this palette: there's contour, highlighter, and blush in one! The powders are intensely pigmented, the shades look natural on the skin, and the pans are HUGE. We also love the wide mirror! Sleek also sells a contour duo for P575 (just the matte contour and highlight) so that's an option if you don't need the bronzer in the middle.

Left to right: City Color Contour & Define, Sleek Face Form Contour & Blush Palette in Medium, Pink Sugar Sweet Cheeks in South Beach, Catrice Sun Glow Matt Bronzing Powder in Medium, Ellana Minerals Light Roast, Tony Moly Crystal Blusher 07

Discuss:

• Do you contour on the regular? 
• What's the best cheapest contour product you've tried so far?

photography by Sam Gonzales

I've been using the Happy Skin Eye Need A Miracle Corrector for about two years now and yes, I will likely repurchase it when I run out. It's still cheaper than my other HG concealers from NARS and MAC, plus it works exactly the way I want it to work. Other concealers offer way too much coverage and not enough brightening so I'd say this corrector is in my goldilocks zone.

That is the context of why I was super excited about the new Happy Skin Zit Zapper Spot Concealer (P899/ 2.5g), which just came out about a month or so ago. Blemishes are my nemeses so I am especially particular about the concealers I use for them. Is the ZZ Concealer worthy of the same love I have for the Corrector?

It's worth mentioning that this being a powerful blemish treatment is unlikely; I mean, it's makeup. The salicylic acid, yogurt, and grapefruit extracts may not be in the right concentration to truly treat skin issues. This is a concealer first and foremost, although it's possible that having additional actives can help you deal with spots a little faster and help along your current choice of acne medication.

The coverage is quite good. I have rather dark blemishes around my chin and as you can see in the photos, one heavy swipe is enough to cover them. I just have to be more careful about blending the concealer (it has a thick texture) so I prefer to use either my fingers or a dense oval brush! When set properly, this concealer doesn't start to fade until the 5 hour mark - about enough time for me to go out and eat or run errands.  

Don't mind the cakiness in the last photo, that's mostly the fault of the cream foundation I used underneath! That foundation had such a weird texture.

It doesn't fully set by itself, so I wouldn't say it's the best for extra oily or sweaty skin.

Butter is the only shade available currently. It's surprisingly a good match on my skin tone! I'd say it's smack in the middle of NC30 and NC35, with a markedly yellow base. I am normally NC35 in MAC so this is a pretty good match, if a teeny bit lighter. I do hope Happy Skin comes out with more shades in the future for other skin tones!

Overall, I like the Happy Skin Zit Zapper Spot Concealer for its coverage and shade match. I pick this up when I want to get my base done quickly, with the least amount of fuss! Stick formulas are so convenient. It's perfect for casual days when I don't want to stress about my makeup. It actually rather reminds me of the Shiseido Perfecting Stick Concealer - same texture and coverage, same non-setting creaminess.

This is great for dry to combi skin (which I am), but not so ideal for oily skin. ^_^ You'd want something that'd truly set to survive the oil.

Discuss:

• How are your blemishes treating you? I always have some on my chin, it's so frustrating!
• What do you use to conceal extra dark marks?
• Got any faves you're loyal to?

compiled by Karla Agyas, contributor

It may be rainy season but things are sizzling up as the beauty world brings you some red-hot products to watch out for! Prepare your makeup bags (and your wallets) as things are going to get spendy and trendy with all the latest goodies. From new formulas, to exciting collaborations and gorgeous runway looks, this week’s Beauty News Roundup is nothing short of fierce, feisty and fabulous!

Too excited for Too Faced

Known for their adorable tin packaging and deliciously scented palettes, Too Faced is at it again with another new release following the success of their Sweet Peach Eye Shadow Palette. Co-founder Jerrod Blandino has already revealed the Sweet Peach Glow Palette, the latest highlight palette we just can’t wait to get our hands (and noses) on, and now he’s teasing us with another addition to Too Faced’s fun and fruity collection.

Meet the “Papa Don’t Peach” face palette: a tiny tin of peachy goodness that’s predicted to be officially released later this year. Other than actually smelling of peaches, not much else is known about this palette (and no other photos exist as of this writing) but makeup mavens are betting on a revamped version of the classic Papa Don’t Peach blush that Too Faced released years ago.

Images via @jerrodblandino on Instagram

And the fun doesn’t stop there! This just in: the latest and hottest pairing is about to make history - Too Faced has just announced their collaboration with Kat Von D! With her already successful line of makeup products and palettes, the tattooed beauty guru is at it again with a #bettertogether collaboration with Too Faced! Two halves become one heart (literally, with the help of magnets): the pink and gold Too Faced side features six pastel and neutral eyeshadows and their coveted Better Than Sex mascara, while Kat’s black and silver side includes six smoky and vibrant shadows plus her famous Tattoo Liner in Trooper! No word yet on when this match made in makeup heaven will be released but count on us to plot this on our to-buy lists!

Full stories on Bustle, Refinery29, Allure and PopSugar

image via allure.com

Image via stowawaycosmetics.com

Tiny titans

Who says size matters? Stowaway Cosmetics is changing the makeup scene, one tiny little product at a time. Known for their revolutionary take on “travel size”, these nifty compacts are set to change the way you touch up and pack your makeup kit. Tiny enough to fit in your wallet, these pots are magnetized, which allow them to be stacked together as the ultimate space-saver. Worried that they aren’t tough enough? They’ve been tested, falling from 20 feet and still surviving! The selection includes a bronzer, an illuminating cream, and a translucent powder, all priced at $16 each.

Full story on Allure

Image via mrsjamesrecommends.com

Wonder water

If you think the US beauty scene is crazy, Korean cosmetics and skincare is on a whole other level. We’ve come to expect that every release features some new ingredient or unheard-of technique that drives K-beauty fanatics gaga. So when they release a product that seems so ordinary, so plain, so “regular,” well, we get curious.

Sephora’s latest best selling product is Korea’s own Son & Park Beauty Water, the $30 multi-purpose bottle of awesomeness. It’s every busy gal’s dream product: a gentle toner-lotion-water hybrid that’s perfect for priming the face, removing makeup, and even as a refresher for post-workout sweaty skin. Thanks to its main ingredients, willow bark and papaya extract, this water-like formula gently exfoliates the skin as well, keeping you glowing all day!

Full story on E!

Image via sephora.com

Off the runway and into your makeup kit

Legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath is known for her crazily pigmented, super luxe, textured and eye catching looks on the runways in Paris, Milan and New York. So when she first came out with a gold and pink highlighter that blinds you at first glance, the beauty world went gaga and, of course, wanted more. Well, the makeup maven is at it again, releasing her latest collection of glittered lip goodness. Her collection includes three Lip Kits named Vermillion Venom, Bloodwine, and Flesh (£46) as well as individual matte lipsticks priced at £19 each. Each lip kit comes with two matte lipsticks, gloss, and two pots of glitter that can be easily applied onto the lips, giving you the same pout seen on the Versace runway. For the serious shimmer lovers and makeup collectors, Pat is also offering the entire glitter glam collection at £114. Want first dibs? It goes live at her site on August 30.

Full story on NYMag

Image via elle.com

Now for those who are traveling to the US or have friends and family there, listen up! Pat isn’t just a legendary makeup artist; she is also Max Factor’s Creative Design Director and she’s got a special treat for those residing stateside. After being gone from US shelves for over six years, Pat’s bringing the brand back with a bang. Introducing Max Factor’s Old Hollywood Capsule Collection: two rosy nude lipsticks, the legendary Masterpiece MAX mascara, and the Masterpiece High Precision Liquid Eyeliner, all for $13.99 each! This limited edition collection is already available in stores both in the US AND in the Philippines, so head on over to your fave Max Factor counter stat.

Full stories on Byrdie and Elle

Image via brit.co

Bauble beautiful

Festival makeup and flower crowns, galaxy-inspired nails, colored metal lips… the beauty world keeps finding new and crazy ways to get us to play up our faces. The latest trend that beauty and fashion gurus think everyone should try? Body baubles. It involves body or lash glue, rhinestones, beads and pearls, and a whole lot of creativity and patience. This look has been seen in music festivals and concerts, but nothing’s stopping the more daring from making this their new weekend look.

Full story on Brit

Images via @chanelofficial on Instagram

Are you red-y?

Known as one of the biggest fashion houses in the world, Chanel is also taking the beauty world by storm, one classic collection at a time. Their latest collection for 2016 is the Le Rouge Collection. Created by new global creative make-up and color designer Lucia Pica, this red-hot collection includes blushes ($45), eyeshadow palettes ($61), rouge lipsticks ($37), and even a nail gloss ($28). Everything has a splash of red, drawing inspiration from petals, scarlet paper, and billowing smoke. It’s definitely a collection that will turn heads and heat up your makeup game.

Full story on Vogue

Exciting, right? How's your weekend like?

Header image @jerrodblandino on Instagram

The Maybelline It Girls are a fabulous bunch. There’s Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima, Georgina Wilson, Emily DiDonato, Jourdan Dunn, and the latest to addition to their roster – Hope Elizabeth Soberano. To say that Liza Soberano is one of the prettiest faces to ever grace Philippine television is no understatement. But more than just looking the part, she is a Maybelline girl through and through – fun, confident, fierce, and crazy in-love with the power of makeup.

The #LizaForMaybelline event started off with a bang as the 18-year-old star made a grand entrance by zooming into the venue in a Vespa. She was visibly excited about her new role, and gamely shared how Maybelline even played a role in getting her started. “I would always tell everyone that Maybelline New York is a dream brand for me. I had to buy makeup to get ready for a gig early in my modeling career, and the first ever makeup that I bought were from Maybelline: their Baby Lips lip balm and mascara.”

Liza grew up in front of the camera but she was a very shy girl when she first started out. For her, makeup definitely helped in building her confidence. “It’s the boost I need, so I couldn't be any prouder to be part of a brand that empowers women and advocate how beauty can take them places,” she said. She was such a doll and her excitement over being Maybelline’s latest ambassador definitely showed.

Want to know Liza’s absolute favorite product from the Maybelline line? It’s the new Clear Smooth All-in-One Powder Foundation (P259) which comes in four shades: Nude Beige, Natural, Honey, and Sand Beige. For everyday, Liza enjoys the no-makeup makeup look. The Clear Smooth powder is just what she needs to look shine-free, flawless, and naturally beautiful. Her three-product face would be made up with powder, a brow product, and mascara – her favorite being the Great Lash mascara, which made it to our top 20 cosmetics find for 2015!  

She revealed, “I’d rather go for bold brows over bold lips, and I like the Fashion Brow Duo Shaper (P299) because you can achieve full brows that don’t look fake or overdone with just one product.” The Fashion Brow Duo Shaper comes with a thin pencil and a powder. It’s available in four shades: Dark Brown, Natural Brown, Chestnut Brown and Blonde Brown.  

As for her go-to lip color, Liza is a fan of nudes. “I’m loving the newest Creamy Matte Brown Nudes in Clay Crush. It’s a modern take to the classic brown lip trend, and I love how Creamy Matte feels on the lips. It really makes sure my lips doesn’t chap because it’s very moisturizing!” The best part is that there are three shades to choose from: Burgundy Blush, Nude Nuance, Clay Crush, Nude Embrace, and Daringly Nude.

Liza is very excited about her new role, and looks forward to inspiring others to dare to dream. “I’m so honored to be a part of the Maybelline girls and I told the team how much I look up to the Maybelline Girls! Super idol ko si Gigi Hadid. #MakeItHappen means every girl deserves a shot to achieve anything she wants – as in whatever it might be for her: a new love life, a new job, new goal – any dream! For me, its about not letting anything stop me from achieving my goals to make my dreams happen on-cam and off-cam. With that, I’m really happy that I can proudly say – I choose to make it happen with Maybelline.”

Such a sweet girl! Any Liza fans here? What do you think of Maybelline's latest releases?

Did you know that your sense of smell is very closely linked to your memories? A whiff of a familiar scent can instantly transport you to a different time and place: sampaguitas that smell like your lola’s garden, pine trees that you saw so much of in Baguio, the delicious aroma of a dish you had at a romantic dinner. It’s nice to be able to reminisce, but what if you want to experience something new and different?

In the same way that familiar scents can be comforting, exotic fragrances are adventurous and exciting. It’s like enjoying the unique aromas when you’re on vacation, except you don’t need to do any actual traveling. If you’re unable to go on a trip and are in need of a quick getaway, grab a bottle or two of these exotic-scented products, and let your senses take you someplace new!

Fruity

The blend of fresh and sweet you get from ripe fruit conjures mouth-watering memories of gorging out on the season’s finest. For a citrusy scent with a summer-appropriate light formula that absorbs into skin quickly, try the Zenutrients Nourishing Olive Face Cream (P260 for 100g). If your locks could use a pick-me-up, Yves Rocher Eclat Radiance Raspberry Rinsing Vinegar (P350) helps cleanse and nourish hair as a final step before finishing up your shower. It smells like delicious berries!

Herbal

Herbal-scented beauty products are definitely on the side of distinct; the green blends aren’t easy to forget. And while some scents admittedly border on medicinal, you can’t help but marvel at certain sharp or crisp notes that wake up the senses. Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner (P379 for 473ml; P75 for 59ml) might take some getting used to, but it does effectively offer a deep cleanse without getting as harsh as other commercial toners and astringents do. Human Nature Rose Dew Mist (P275) has a predominantly rosy scent, but there’s also a hint of something leafy underneath. We chalk it up to the aloe vera component and other plant-derived ingredients. For an energizing shower, Bare Green Tea Soothing & Brightening Body Wash (P475 from Beauty Bar) will get you thinking of a hot cup of freshly brewed tea.

Floral

Naturally, floral scents bring to mind life’s little luxuries. It could be a walk through a lush garden, a beautifully arranged bouquet inside a ritzy hotel lobby, or a colorful lei around the neck. For the latter, Hei Poa Monoi Oil  (P550 from Beauty Bar)in the original powdery vanilla Tiare (Tahitian gardenia) scent will instantly transport you to fantasies of idyllic island life and the perfect tan. Indulge in aromatherapy with a scented oil like Aura Cacia’s Jasmine Absolute Essential Oil (P999 from Healthy Options). This doesn’t smell like your typical string of sampaguita flowers; it has a slightly musky and sensual tone that makes massages feel like royal treatment. You can also add a drop to your humidifier, reed diffuser, or burner! The Body Shop Rainforest Volume Shampoo (P695) has an intense fruity floral scent that also gives hints of sweet mango. Beach resort vibes all the way!

Essential Oils

We’ve also got a collection of fragrances that are a little bit of everything, but carefully combined to form a harmonious scent. Origins Dr. Weil Mega Mushroom Skin Relief Soothing Treatment Lotion (~P2,000) has hints of lavender and chamomile to soothe the mind in addition to settling the skin. The Jason Vitamin E Oil (P700 from Healthy Options) has a mild scent, but it reminds us of sunflowers and a hint of rosemary. The Body Shop Oils of Life Intensely Revitalising Face Oil (P2,395) can be described as equal parts herbal and warm, comforting but non-lingering, with the formula being light enough to use under makeup. Finally, Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate (P2,880) will put you right at ease with for bedtime with a combination of lavender and primrose oils for a #wokeuplikethis glow the following morning.

What scents instantly bring to mind a getaway? Have you ever purchased a product just because its scent triggered a specific memory?

It's 10am but it looks like it's 5pm outside. It's the gloomiest morning of the year, I swear, and it's all because of this incessant rain! I hope you're dry wherever you are. If you're not, and you wish your eyeliner was as waterproof as you are in these situations, then I think you'll want to get your paws on the Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil (P1,250) ASAP. It's the waterproof pencil you deserve!

MUFE's Aqua line has always been reliable - I've been using the liquid lipstick, liquid liner, cream eyeshadow, lip pencil, and old formulation of the pencil liner long enough to know they will NOT move whatever I do. With their Aqua XL liner, a new formula released last June, I knew that my ugly smudgy eyeliner days are dead and buried.

I wasn't wrong. This pencil is super creamy and glides on my lids easily, but once it sets it's just there until I take it off. I've worn this the whole day (about 10-12 hours) and I didn't observe any fading. I've worn this to tennis several times and yup, no smudging even with the sweat. It's a tank pretty much! I'd even bet I can swim in this pencil and it would still barely move.

I got two pencils: M-80, a matte smoky purple, and ME-42, a light copper. MUFE has the usual black, brown, and navy colors in the line but I wanted colors I don't have yet. I'm thinking of getting the basic colors too, though, just in case. The ones I have are intense in one swipe and doesn't smudge both on the upper and lower lash line.

In this look, I am wearing M-80 on my upper lids and ME-42 on my waterline. Such a pretty combo!

The catch? Well, it's expensive, but this is one of those things I would not mind paying for because of sheer reliability. I do find it a bit of a challenge to sharpen. Since the fresh tip is soft, it might come off on your sharpener if you're not careful. Sayang! My advice is to put it in the fridge for a few minutes before sharpening it.

Overall, I highly recommend the Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil to everyone who's had it with eyeliners that can't keep up with their lives. It's waterproof, smudge-proof, and comes in 20 colors. Expensive, yes, but so few eyeliners are truly waterproof. Just get your bi-phase or oily makeup remover ready!

Discuss:

• What is the most waterproof liner you've ever tried?
• Do you need waterproof liner or are you ok with water-resistant formulas?

compiled by Marianne Raterta, contributor

Makeup is like a good pair of jeans: once you find that perfect fit, you just have to buy more than one! Much like clothing, it can be pretty tricky (and downright tedious) to find a product that suits you. Even with a lot of rave reviews from people you know and trust, it’s not a complete guarantee that it will also work for you since we all have different skin needs and product reactions.

Every once in a while though, we encounter a product that makes all the time and effort worth it: a magical cleansing oil that seems to just melt your full face of makeup effortlessly, a foundation that stays on even through what feels like eternally exhausting days, a blush that makes you look like you’re glowing from the inside, or an eyebrow pencil that makes it so easy to polish your arches. We just can’t imagine our lives without it. Here are some of ours!

Liz: I repurchase skincare more often than cosmetics, so perhaps we should leave that for another day. I want to tell you about my HG concealer - I've gotten I think six pots of this over the years! It's the MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NC35. It's a heavy-coverage, long-wearing concealer that matches my skin invisibly. Lasts forever, too, since it's 7 grams a pot!

Marielle: There are two things I plan to keep repurchasing indefinitely: The Body Shop Shea Body Butter and DHC Deep Cleansing Oil. I'm on my second bottle of DHC, and it's a marvelous rinse-off makeup remover that gets most of my daily makeup. I've lost count of how many tubs of shea body butter I've gone through, but I think I'm starting on my fifth already. I adore the smell, and it gets at my ashy, dry areas without feeling too heavy.

Angela: My most repurchased make up ever is mascara. I NEED it. My eyes are not the same without it. I love mascaras from Maybelline and L'Oreal but if I could splurge, I'd buy Benefit's Roller Lash mascara. It's so good. I just bought The Falsies Push Up Drama from Maybelline because reviews say that it is similar - we'll see. But I'm currently using Miss Manga Rock from L'Oreal and it's definitely a must-try too.

Gett: My most repurchased cosmetics would be eyebrow pencils. My favorites are the Etude House Drawing Eye Brow and the Nature Republic Auto Eyebrow. I love how they're so easy to use, and the shades (I use both in Brown) aren't too red or dark on me. They also wear well after a long day!

Claire: I have very sensitive eyes, so I religiously replace my mascara every three months. Right now, I love using Benefit's They're Real! Tinted Primer (looks great even when worn alone on casual days), and CoverGirl's Full Lash Bloom Mascara (got this when they last went on sale for just P199). I also love mascaras from Maybelline and L'Oreal - they're oh-so-affordable but work really well!

Crystal: I am quite the makeup junkie, so I always have enough to go around without having to repurchase items. I've only ever repurchased one makeup item, and that's how I know that it's true love! That item is my Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation. I have extremely oily skin, so I whip this out when I know that I will have a long day or will sweat a lot. This is one of the most long-wearing foundations in the market. It gives medium to full coverage that doesn't break me out with regular use.

Stacie: My first ever moisturizer is the Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel, and I've repurchased it thrice! I love that it's multi-purpose: I use it on my body, hair, face and even to ease my itchy allergies. I refill it in a pump bottle and leave it in the shower because I use it right after washing my face. I also reuse the giant tubs as storage containers for things like my sliced Kojie-san soaps.

Charlie: Currently, I'm on my fifth bottle of Snoe's Awesome Poresome Pore Perfect Serum. I've tried quite a few serums in the past to help me with my pore problem, and this one seems to be the only one that actually works for me. It leaves a cooling sensation, which I love, and with religious use it helps make my pores a little less out there than they usually are.

Kim: My most repurchased beauty item is the Clean and Clear Oil Film, which I always have two of at any given moment. I'm super oily and no other oil control film works for me as well as this does. I tried experimenting with other brands for a while but I just keep coming back.

What’s your most repurchased beauty buy? What is there about it that keeps you coming back for more? Let us know in the comments!

By Charlie Esmerna, contributor / Header image by Mikki Galang

Why do you wear makeup? Are you fascinated by pretty lip colors and gorgeous palettes? Is it a requirement for your profession? Do you feel like you “need” it to correct and cover up imperfections?

There are no right or wrong answers. We’re lucky to be living in a time and place where women who swipe on rouge are no longer commonly judged as prostitutes. There are beauty communities to share our raves and rants, a wide variety of brands and products available in stores, and even schools that provide formal training to would-be professionals.

But it’s not a perfect society. There are still those who praise “natural beauty” and shame fellow women who choose to spend hours primping in front of a mirror. Project Vanity has always been and will always be about helping women to be more confident about who they are and how they look. So we talked to a few makeup lovers, professionals and enthusiasts alike, to share how makeup has been a source of empowerment for them.

Rizza Mae Aganap, professional makeup artist

Makeup is a confidence builder, especially when people stare and give compliments about how beautiful I look. 
I feel "naked" without any makeup on. Putting on makeup is also time for yourself, your personal pamper time. Making the effort to look good can be empowering for women.

Lian Capili, professional makeup artist

Makeup empowers me by giving me the extra confidence I need. It gives me the assurance that I will still be presentable even on days when I don't get enough sleep and my skin isn't at its best, which happens a lot of the time. It helps me enhance what is already beautiful in me.

Kris Lumagui, YouTuber and beauty blogger

Makeup allows me to become the best version of myself. Should I want to be the most confident, most glamorous, or even the most comfortable person in the world, I can do it with just one swipe of my makeup brush! Makeup helps me see the beauty in me that sometimes becomes blurry because of the world's negativity. 

Gen-zel Habab, makeup artist and beauty blogger

For me, makeup is a tool, a weapon to conquer a woman's fear and achieve her goals. It's not a mask like what other people think. You are still yourself, with or without makeup. It's very similar to dressing up: wearing the best clothes to look more presentable or to emphasize your favorite part of your body. Makeup boosts our confidence in presenting ourselves to other people.

In some countries, wearing makeup and being prepared from head to toe is being polite. It means you value the person in front of you that you want to look your best for them. To some, makeup is like a magic wand (let's say a tube of red lipstick) that transforms a woman into her best self.

Arian Yupangco, beauty and lifestyle writer

I’ve always believed that makeup is not just a medium for self-expression and creativity. It is so much more than that. It allows women like me to put our best face forward – quite literally. I recognize that I, just like all others, have flaws that are both physical and figurative. Using makeup to minimize or cover those physical flaws is not an act of deceit like so many people bitterly claim. I don’t wear makeup to fool anyone. I wear makeup because it empowers me. It helps me enhance and emphasize the already existing features I am proud to have.

Sweeping foundation over my face is not me telling the world that my skin is flawless; it is allowing me to not be distracted by my imperfections so that I can focus on and develop other aspects of myself. Why should I spend time worrying about how dark my undereye area is, or if my complexion is too dull? With some concealer and blush, I can instead spend that time sharing my passion for beauty on my blog with others around the world, or simply create memorable moments with family and friends. I don’t use makeup to pretend I am someone else. I use makeup to empower the person I already am.

Tara Cabullo, beauty and lifestyle blogger

I am typing this during a rare window of time I have on a typical Wednesday in telco life -- launching a new device. Being in one of the busiest industries in the world means there's very little time and opportunity to fix myself within the day. Knowing that I have done and executed my makeup to a degree of what I need (whether I'm alone, with my friends, or attending a work event) gives me the energy to power through, like Beyonce launching video after music video. There is a certain kind of confidence that comes from knowing you look your best at all these moments - even though you're not on camera, it always helps to be prepared. With great makeup, fabulous hair, a killer outfit and heels, you can face anything that comes your way.

Mikki Galang, beauty blogger

Makeup empowers me as a transgender woman because it helps me feminize and soften my facial features —such as a soft smokey eye, slimmer chin and prominent cheekbones through contouring. As a woman and artist, it empowers me to express myself through colors and see the joy from other people. As an entrepreneur, it gives me a venue for my skills and talents to shine through.

Janlee Dungca, PR professional

Makeup to me is an instrument of self-expression, similar to how clothing speaks of a person's personality. Personally, I like to keep my makeup natural and sleek as that is how I would describe my total look and style. But it's also fun to play and experiment with makeup based on my mood and outfit.

As a transgender woman, and just like any other woman, wearing makeup gives me that extra boost of confidence because I know that it enhances my appearance. And when I know I look good, then I also feel good. I cannot speak for every transgender woman since expression of gender and beauty are very personal but for those who want to have a more feminine and softer look, makeup has been a very helpful tool.

Trina Mendiola, HR Specialist

Makeup helped me to bounce back from life's greatest challenges. I never imagined myself to be someone who will embrace it. I started my interest on makeup when I had my fair share of tough hours in life. One day, I found myself trying on makeup testers that cosmetic kiosks had on display. I had no idea how to use them but I enjoyed looking at the colors, and even if it looked messy I didn't mind that the backs of my hands were full of lipstick and eye shadow swatches.

When I got home, I got on my computer and spent hours watching makeup tutorials on YouTube. After a few failed tries, I was able to do my eyebrows like how my favorite YouTube vloggers would do theirs. I learned how to do my own makeup. I began to enjoy discussing makeup products and tips with my officemates. I began to feel good because I knew I looked good.

Makeup has a therapeutic effect on me, especially when I lost my mom. When I look back, I was able to survive my dark days because of this simple obsession. Even though I am not a professional makeup artist, when someone says my makeup looks nice or asks me for help with their makeup, I feel a sense of confidence and of achievement; that at the end of the day I can say to myself, "Hey, you did something great today!" or "Hey, you were able to touch someone's life today!" 

Jessica Nicole Cañaberal, writer/editor

I see makeup as a tool for enhancing my features and expressing my individuality. I like to accentuate what I feel confident in flaunting, like my lips and cheeks. I also love to put colors on my face that would reflect how I feel or would make me imbibe a character that I am far from real life. Aside from enhancement, makeup transforms, and it makes me ready to face anything since I know I look better (than my usual bare face). 

Katkat Baluyot, book illustrator

Makeup empowers me by giving me confidence and making me feel beautiful. As a transgender, I always want to look feminine, and makeup has helped me in so many ways to achieve that. It’s not that I don’t like the way I look without makeup. But I find putting makeup a FUN way to cover up the parts of me I’m still learning to love :) Although I have so much issues about how I look, I know I can’t just sit at the corner of my room and feel sorry for myself that I don’t have the perfect brows, or smooth and beautiful skin, or thick eyelashes! I have a choice, and I choose to be beautiful and confident.

For these women and the PV team, getting prettified isn't just skin deep. Cosmetics have a real and meaningful impact on our lives. How about you? In what ways has makeup become a source of empowerment for you?

by Marianne Raterta, contributor

Is it just me, or are makeup companies releasing products at breakneck speeds? By the time you finally make your way to the store for a #swatchfest, they're already teasing a fresh new release! It feels like my wish list keeps getting longer by the day, and my wallet's simply relegated to holding receipts. 

While some struggle with a shopping addiction, the rest of us are left staring at counter displays and phone screens, dreaming of a day when we can finally walk away from the register clutching the newest addition to our collection. But don't just keep dreaming, girls and boys! Whether it’s something new or long overdue, there is a way to Treat Yo' Self without running out of cash to pay the bills and eat real food (no, instant noodles aren't real food). You do need to do a bit math, some restraint, and loads of patience, but the #haul it will (literally) afford you will be worth it!

Cut back on non-essentials

Admittedly, it’s a bit of a hassle to take note of where EVERY single peso you make goes but it will help you figure out how much spend in a day and what you spend it on. Write it down on a notebook as soon as you can, or get a budget tracking app for your phone. I personally use the Money Manager Expense & Budget app for Android but you can also check out other free finance tracking apps like Mint, Goodbudget and Wally.

Now that you can see how much you spend on things like food and transportation, is there anything you can cut back spending on? Maybe you can brew your own coffee at home (and save on calories), or use carpooling to your advantage (and save on gas and carbon emissions). Examine your expenses and check where you can trim off spending, because every bit of cash saved can be funneled towards your splurge fund instead! 

Lock it away

Whether you stash your cash in the bank, in labeled envelopes, or even a piggy bank, it's probably a good idea to make it as difficult to get to as possible. You can opt to use a passbook instead of an ATM card, and use a container that's difficult to get into. Some people go as far as entrusting their funds to others, but that practice has its risks. Besides, it's good for you to be responsible for your own finances and you get an important lesson in self-control.

Chart your goals

Are you a visual learner? It may help you to "see" how your money is growing! Tape a chart where you can always see it and mark it every time you make progress. It's a good idea to list down very specific goals (the actual products you want) rather than simply having a target amount. Also, try to keep your goals list to just a few items or at an amount that you can save in two to three months. Having too much can make you feel impatient and frustrated, which takes the fun out of looking forward to your purchase. 

Research, research and research

Impulse-buying can be a beauty enthusiast’s Achilles's heel. When so many people rave about a product, we want to have it and we want to have it now! Don't let your emotions get carried away. Dig deeper than all the rave blog posts, or even try looking for posts that actually rant about it. You want to have a complete idea of what the product is really about, which can help you decide whether to splurge or get a cheaper alternative.

Ask friends about their experience with the product or go to online beauty communities. At PV, we love it when readers chime in on their experiences with the products we've reviewed, even when their experiences are different from our own. After all, different people can get different reactions.

If you're lemming after a premium product, go ahead and visit their store. Brands like Origins and Estée Lauder offer free demos, or you can try the testers and ask for a sample. Just don't be abusive, of course, and avoid hoarding samples!

Hide your paycheck

It’s very tempting to run off to the mall once you get your salary but try to keep a clear head - you have your obligations. Pay off or set aside cash for the most important things first (we mean food and basic utilities, not that gorgeous highlighter palette) before spending any of it on non-essentials. If you can, dedicate a specific amount of each paycheck for your Splurge Fund so you don't end up spending the extra money on eating out or going to movies. Yes, it can come down to deciding whether between makeup and a night out with friends, so your #priorities will definitely come into question.

If you're really really really dying to get some new makeup, you can get yourself a mini treat. We have a lot of budget beauty picks that can help with your itch but whatever you spend will be deducted from your splurge fund. This will help you stop yourself from losing sight of your goal, spending on cheap buys, and relying on unhealthy cheap food because you blew your cash.

Are there any other money-saving tips that you swear by? What big beauty splurges are you saving up for?