-RMK

Summer 2009 Makeup Top 10 (Part 1)

by PJ on Thursday, June 18, 2009

in -Dior, -Elégance, -Paul & Joe, -RMK, 2009 Summer, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup, seasonal makeup top 10

The weather in the UK in the last couple of weeks has been pleasantly warm on the whole, so it seems to be a good time to count down my favorite summer 2009 makeup collections. (Let’s hope that the good weather will continue.)

10. Paul & Joe

(image from www.paul-joe-beaute.com)

Paul & Joe’s summer 2009 collection captures the beach holiday feel with gold-toned neutrals and soft cool pinks for eyes, lips and nails. The wearable colors have a subtly vibrant look, and I like the limited-edition champagne gold packaging.

9. Dior

(image from www.dior.com)

With the launch of the Lilas Addict collection (in some countries) and the new 5-Color Design Eyeshadow palettes, Dior’s summer 2009 collection seems a little drowned among all the new products. The seasonal star item, Dior Cristal Shine, is a slight disappointment for me, since it doesn’t have the luxurious feel that many of Dior’s past star items have. The real stars of this collection for me are the two 5-Color Iridescent Eyeshadow palettes. The cool-toned iridescent shades look vivid and edgy.

8. RMK

(image from www.rmkrmk.com)

RMK’s renewal collection was released in time for summer 2009. I like the fact that the 35 shades of Ingenious Powder Eyes are categorized into five groups: DR (Dark), BR (Brown), P (Pearly), SH (Shimmery), and ME (Metallic). I particularly like the dimensional finish of the SH shades I tested at the counter. Also, if you like very sparkly eyeshadows, the ME shades are a must-see. They are seriously sparkly. (They are definitely more sparkly than metallic.)

7. Elégance

(image from www.elegance-cosmetics.com)

Many Japanese beauty brands release colorful items for summer, and Elégance’s summer 2009 collection is a good example. The new Lustre Crush Eyes looks very lovely. (Many Japanese consumers seem to see blue and green as summer colors for eyes.) Since it is not a limited-edition item, I am hoping that there will be more shades in the future.

Please check out Part 2 and Part 3.

Spring 2009 Makeup Top 10: Part One, Two & Three

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News in Brief: SUQQU, RMK & Chanel

by PJ on Wednesday, June 3, 2009

in -Chanel, -RMK, -SUQQU, 2009 Summer, all about Japanese cosmetics

(image from www.suqqu.com/global)

– SUQQU will release Perfect Eye Makeup Kit tomorrow (June 4th) in London’s Selfridges. The limited-edition kit, retailing for £68, includes a green-toned Blend Eyeshadow EX-02, Mascara Volume Long N EX-01 Green, Eye Make Up Remover (50ml), Eye Cream (4g), Screw Brush, and an original bag. (The eye palette, mascara and screw brush are available only in this kit.)

(image from www.rmkrmk.com)

– RMK‘s makeup collection renewal items will also be available in Selfridges tomorrow. The Ingenious Power/Jelly Eyes retail for £16 and the Ingenious Powder/Jelly Cheeks retail for £19.50. I swatched a few colors and was quite pleased with the texture of the powder. I particularly liked SH-07 Shiny Purple, which has beautifully dimensional shimmer.

(image from www.selfridges.com)

– I stopped by the Chanel counter in Harvey Nichols and one SA confirmed that the Chanel Studio (which used to carry items only available in Asia and North America) had left Harvey Nichols and would be moving to Selfridges. There was no sight of the Tokyo Happening collection in either counter. Instead, the London Madness collection is available.

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RMK Ingenious Powder/Jelly Eyes Swatches

by PJ on Wednesday, May 27, 2009

in -RMK, 2009 Summer, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup

(image from www.rmkrmk.com)

If you are interested in RMK‘s new Ingenious Powder Eyes and Ingenious Jelly Eyes, Taiwanese blogger, Sharon, has posted product photos and swatches of all the new eyeshadows.

For more information on RMK’s makeup range renewal, please have a look at my previous post.

RMK Powder Foundation EX

RMK Super Basic Liquid Concealer

RMK Spring 2009 Makeup Collection

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RMK Makeup Renewal

by PJ on Saturday, May 9, 2009

in -RMK, 2009 Summer, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup

(images from www.rmkrmk.com)

The RMK website (the Japanese site) is now featuring the information on the brand’s revamp of eyeshadows and blushers. The new items include:

– Ingenious Powder Eyes (35 shades)
– Ingenious Jelly Eyes (8 shades)
– Ingenious Powder Cheeks (23 shades)
– Ingenious Jelly Cheeks (6 shades)

(RMK’s cases for eyeshadow and blusher singles used to be sold separately. Now customers don’t have the choice of buying the refills anymore.)

I haven’t seen the new colors in person, but I am suspecting that some of the colors are probably very similar to or the same as the old ones. I was comparing the new Ingenious Jelly Eyes with the old Jelly Eye Color (the RMK English site hasn’t been updated with the new lineup), and it appears that the middle six of the new eight shades look more or less the same as the previous shades of Jelly Eye Color.

At the moment, it seems that the renewal features repackaged items with some new additions. I will bring you more observation and thoughts when I have a chance to see the new lineup.

Updated on May 27th 2009:

Check out a link to some very good product photos and swatches here.

RMK Powder Foundation EX

RMK Spring 2009 Collection

Can’t Live Without – RMK Cleansing Oil

Cosme Decorte Makeup Renewal for Fall 2008

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Base Makeup Review: RMK Super Basic Liquid Concealer

by PJ on Tuesday, May 5, 2009

in -RMK, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup, makeup - base makeup, makeup - base makeup - primer/concealer

(RMK Super Basic Concealer in 02)

A few weeks ago, I reviewed RMK‘s Powder Foundation EX, one of RMK’s three new base makeup items. Today I am sharing my thoughts on one of the two other products, Super Basic Concealer.

It is available in four shades and has SPF 28 and PA+++, and it uses a twist-click dispenser. The concealer has a creamy consistency, a good opaque coverage and a glowy matte finish. (It doesn’t have visible shimmery particles.)

So far, I have been having little issue with darkness in the eye area, so I can’t really say how well it works on heavy dark circles. (But it does even out the skin tone in the eye area quite well.) My main issue is the occasional breakout, and this product covers the redness effectively.

Also, I think the texture and consistency are just right. It is not so liquidy that it gets blended off where I want it to stay (it is always annoying when a concealer ends up around the breakout and not on the breakout), and the cream is just malleable enough to be blended nicely with enough play time to ensure a seamless finish.

I use this concealer underneath my powder foundation, which helps set the concealer. Once it sets, it is very long-lasting and doesn’t travel or disintegrate (even on my oily skin, where cream-based base makeup products don’t tend to stay on very well).

The shades tested for this review are 01 and 02. My skin tone is between light and light-to-medium (I use ZA Two-Way Foundation in 22 and I would go for the second OC shade in Japanese foundations), and 02 is a fairly good match for me. If you have a fair skin tone and tend to go for the lightest foundation shade, then 01 should be a good fit for you. (Both shades are quite neutral-toned and don’t look pinkish. Apart from being darker, 02 is slightly warmer than 01.)

Overall, Super Basic Concealer seems to be a very competent product, and, for me, it works well in concealing redness/breakouts. Also, the SPF/PA factors are a welcome feature as they provide extra protection for the breakout area, which can be particularly sensitive to sunlight.

“Japanese Base Makeup” series

Thierry Mugler Bleu Glacis Cooling Effect Concealer

Prescriptives Site Unseen Brightening Concealer SPF 15

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Makeup Review: RMK Powder Foundation EX

by PJ on Monday, April 13, 2009

in -RMK, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup, makeup - base makeup, makeup - base makeup - foundation

(RMK Powder Foundation EX in 103)

RMK is one of the Japanese beauty brands known for their base makeup. It doesn’t update its base makeup range as often as many other Japanese beauty lines, so it really attracts attention when it does. Today I am reviewing RMK’s latest powder foundation, Powder Foundation EX (SPF24, PA++, in 9 shades).

The whole idea of this foundation is to create the dewy finish of a cream foundation with a powder foundation. The foundation features a “powder” layer and a “pearl” layer. The powder layer is used as the usual powder foundation, while the pearl layer is used as a highlighter (with the brush that comes with the foundation).

This foundation gives a slightly-above-medium coverage, and the pore coverage and the lasting power are satisfactory. In terms of the dewy finish that this powder foundation sets out to achieve, it is a successful product. The powder is very fine and it doesn’t create a powdered look. The finish is indeed dewy and glowy.

According to the instruction sheet that comes with the foundation, the pearl layer should be avoided on the T-zone and the sides of the nose, which can get oily overtime. I think the pearl layer is definitely more suitable on the top of the cheekbones to both emphasize the dewy look and to highlight the cheekbones.

The downside of this foundation is that it has very little oil control efficacy. If you have oily skin, the dewy finish (just from the powder layer) will not hold overtime and will make your face appear even more oily as the day goes on. (I tried using Kiss Mat Chiffon Powder (which is the most matte loose powder I have) to set the foundation, but my face still started to look oily within two hours.)

The shade you see here is 103, which is a yellow-toned shade. It goes on a little darker than it looks in the pan, and it is about one shade darker than Majolica Majorca Skin Remake Compact in OC20 and two shades darker than my staple, ZA Two-Way Foundation in 22. (The other shade tested is 202, which is a pale pink-toned shade that is considerably paler than ZA 22.)

There are two other things worth mentioning. Firstly, the sponge that comes with the foundation doesn’t work particularly well. The fact that it is so soft and smooth actually works against itself, as it is not porous enough to grab and dispense/spread the powder efficiently. It still helps the foundation create a smooth finish on the face, but it takes a long time. (The sponge from my ZA Two-Way Foundation, which is just an ordinary powder foundation sponge similar to most others, actually works better with this foundation.)

Secondly, I like the grey velvet sleeves for the foundation case and the brush. At the first sight, they didn’t look as glamorous as the dark ones from Chanel, Dior, YSL and SUQQU. But overtime, they prove to be very practical as they never look as dusty as the dark sleeves can sometimes look. They are also somewhat chic-looking.

Overall, I think this product falls into the category of fall/winter foundations from Japanese brands and will suit people with normal or dry skin. Essentially, if your skin can take an emollient cream foundation and if you like the dewy finish from it, then this product can work well for you. (It should also provide a speedier application than applying a cream foundation). However, if you have combination or oily skin, this product is certainly not for you (even if you avoid the pearl layer). A more matte foundation with a good sebum control ability, such as Coffret D’Or’s Beauty Lasting Pact UV, will suit you a lot better.

I will review RMK’s new Super Basic Liquid Concealer next month.

Japanese Base Makeup Week

Foundation Face-Off: Chanel vs. SUQQU

Foundation Face-Off: Jill Stuart vs. SUQQU

Jill Stuart Moist Silk Liquid Foundation

Primavista Powder Foundation Moist Touch

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Spring 2009 Makeup Top 10 (Part 1)

by PJ on Monday, March 16, 2009

in -Elégance, -Esprique (Precious), -Kosé, -Maquillage, -RMK, -Shiseido, 2009 Spring, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup, seasonal makeup top 10

Spring makeup collections tend to be my favorites as compared with collections from the rest of the year, since the colors are usually soft, fresh, and wearable. This week, I will be counting down my top ten spring 2009 makeup collections.

10. Maquillage

(Maquillage Eyes Creators 3D)
(image from www.shiseido.co.jp/mq)

(Maquillage Face Creators 3D)

(image from www.shiseido.co.jp/mq)

Maquillage rolled out a large collection for spring 2009, changed a few of the brand ambassadors, and modified the packaging. The collection focuses on creating dimension for the face and the facial features. The Face Creator 3D includes highlighters, contourers and a blusher and aims to create depth for the face and a delicate jawline.

9. RMK

(image from www.rmkrmk.com)

RMK‘s spring 2009 collection, Spring Translucence, is full of soft ethereal hues. The idea is to use moderately pigmented shades with a gently luminous finish to enhance the lucidity of the complexion (rather than to cover the face with opaque colors). The star item is the Translucent Cheeks & Eyes, with one warmer and one cooler variation. The other items in the collection are also well-balanced and features both warmer and cooler shades.

8. Elégance

(Elégance EyeShadows)
(image from www.elegance-cosmetics.com)

(Elégance Radiance Quartet)

(image from www.elegance-cosmetics.com)

Like Sonia Rykiel and Paul & Joe, Elégance is a French fashion line with its beauty range mainly available in Asia. I particularly like the glamorous and opulent golden cases for many of its products. (Please see my profile of the brand here.) For spring 2009, the four new Eyeshadow palettes reflect all the main seasonal color trends (pinks, purples, and neutrals). The new Radiance Quartet is among the three cheek items from Elégance that I really want to check out in person.

7. Esprique Precious

(Esprique Precious True Impact Eyes)
(image from ep-bko.com)

Usually, spring is when most Japanese brands bring out the largest point makeup collection, but Kosé’s Esprique Precious‘ spring 2009 collection is very concise and consists of four eye palettes, two lipsticks and two lip glosses. The purple eye palette (True Impact Eyes in T-3) is featured as the main item of the collection. (Please see the ad image here.) I am still a little tempted to try this palette, as the purple seems to have the right tone for my complexion.

The countdown continues in Part 2 and Part 3.

Spring 2009 Makeup Trend Report

Maquillage Clean Contrast Eyes 2 in SV844

Maquillage Forming Shiny Eyes in 52

RMK Water Colors Eyes in 02 Lavender

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RMK for London Fashion Week

by PJ on Wednesday, February 18, 2009

in -RMK, 2009 Spring, all about Japanese cosmetics, makeup

(image from www.rmkrmk.com)

RMK will be hosting an event for London Fashion Week from 19th to 25th of February.

The RMK makeup artists will give you a makeover using RMK’s base makeup products as well as items from the spring 2009 “Spring Translucence” makeup collection.

Also, on the 19th and 21st, you can also book to experience the latest catwalk hairstyles with Wella, Schwarzkopf and Frédéric Fekkai hair stylist Dawn Wellam, who will demonstrate the spring hairstyle trends to go with RMK’s spring makeup looks.

The booking fee is £20, which is redeemable against purchases on the day. Booking customers will receive a skincare trial kit, and those with purchases over £50 and £70 will also receive, respectively, the RMK spring/summer 09 scented candle and a handy cheek brush.

For more information and for booking an appointment, please call RMK at Selfridges on 0207 318 3538.

(information from RMK)

RMK Water Color Eyes in 02 Lavender

Beauty City Guide: London

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Makeup Review: RMK Water Color Eyes in 02 Lavender

by PJ on Friday, January 16, 2009

in -RMK, makeup, makeup - eyeshadow

Many Japanese makeup brands feature a liquid or light-cream eyeshadow that is applied with a sponge (or occasionally a brush) applicator and blended with a finger. (One of the most popular ones is perhaps Beauté de Kosé’s Eye Fantasist.) RMK‘s version is Water Color Eyes, which is more liquidy than creamy. It comes in 7 shades, and today I am reviewing #02 Lavender.

It is a light lilac with subtle multi-colored shimmer. One layer creates a mildly pearly finish with no obvious sparkle (which is the finish I tend to go for with this item). More layers create a more intense/pearly look.

When worn lightly, it can brighten up the eyes naturally without looking obvious. Once when I wore it, a friend commented that my eye area looked brighter and she wasn’t aware that I was wearing makeup on my eyelids until I told her.

Apart from the lids, it can also be worn under eyebrows and in the inner corners of the eyes. For the latter, simply take off the excess on the applicator (which is a sponge applicator that we usually see for a lip gloss) and apply the color with very minimal blending.

The color is easily blended with a finger. The liquidy texture allows just enough time for blending, and, once it dries, the color sets quite firmly. I am very impressed with the staying power. After a whole day, the finish stays put and doesn’t fade. (I don’t usually use a primer under eyeshadows.)

If you want to brighten up the eye-lid area with an item that works subtly and effectively, this is a good item to consider. Also, if you are looking for eyeshadows that are more resistant to creasing, this range should be worth looking into.

RMK Spring 2009 Collection

Can’t Live Without – RMK Cleansing Oil

Review: RMK Fall 2008 Collection

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Holiday 2008 Makeup Top 10 (Part 1)

by PJ on Wednesday, December 17, 2008

in -Cosme Decorte, -Jill Stuart, -Kosé, -Magie Deco, -RMK, -Shu Uemura, 2008 Holiday, seasonal makeup top 10

Today and in the next few days, I will be counting down my 10 favorite holiday 2008 makeup collections. We’ll start from #10 to #7 today.

10. RMK

(image from RMK)

The 2008 edition of RMK’s Christmas Palette is probably one of the best holiday palettes from RMK in recent years, particularly in terms of the packaging. I like the two-tier design as well as the metallic gold pouch. (On the other hand, I didn’t like the animal-print palette from last year, even though it had some very nice colors.) The colors are wearable and the sparkles in the three pastel eyeshadows add a festive vibe to the party makeup look.

Please have a look at my review of the palette here.

9. Magie Deco

(image from www.iswii.net)

This is Magie Deco’s second holiday coffret. While I prefer the first one, this year’s version still looks gorgeous and glamorous. It is a good continuation of the deep-red theme from the line’s fall 2008 Bordeaux Magic collection.

8. Jill Stuart

(image from www.urcosme.com)

I have to say I am slightly underwhelmed by Jill Stuart’s holiday set for this year. It does have a beautiful vintage look, but, again, I prefer last year’s Christmas Rose Collection, with rosette details and a more different design for the eyeshadow palette. But the Solid Perfume Ring did tempt me a little bit when I first saw it.

7. Shu Uemura

(image from www.shuuemura-usa.com)

I really like the cases of these eye palettes and some of the colors in them. The colorful photos are by Japanese photographer Mika Ninagawa, and they also feature in Gloss Unlimited Mini Trio, Portable Brush Set and Makeup Box. Shu Uemura’s products usually have a simple and minimal look, and these images inject a lot of vibrancy to these holiday items. (You can see the rest of the collection here.)

The countdown continues in Part 2 and Part 3!

My Fall 2008 Makeup Top 10:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

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