Beautiful Lips — with Blue Lip Glosses?

by PJ on Wednesday, May 23, 2007

in -Dior, -Guerlain, 2007 Summer, makeup, makeup - lip color, makeup - lip gloss, stash focus

(pictured from top: DiorKiss 208 Mint Lemonade,
DiorKiss 198 Plum Tart,
Guerlain by Emilio Pucci Lip Gloss 03 Sparking Sea)
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There are all the usual lip gloss colors: red, pink, coral, plum and beige. But once in a while you see some seemingly wacky shades of yellow, green, and blue, and you might think “Why?”

This season, at least three major brands have come up with their versions of blue lip gloss. Dior has added a light blue shade into their DiorKiss range, while one of the limited-edition items in the Guerlain by Emilio Pucci collection is a sparkling blue lip gloss. Benefit has also come up with California Kissin’, another blue lip gloss.

On the Benefit website and various other places (like the American Vogue), blue-tinted lip glosses are claimed to be able to make teeth appear whiter. But I am not really convinced of this and that’s not the reason why I buy blue lip glosses.

First of all, I like blue lip glosses because I like all colors in the aquamarine-turquoise spectrum (as you might have seen in my A Splash of Color – Aqua Blue post). When I see blue-tinted lip glosses, I am instantly drawn to them and it is as if I could see tropical ocean in a tube. Love it.

Secondly, I do actually use them. What blue-tinted lip glosses do is that they subtly bounce/balance off the red in the lips and therefore give a beautiful transparency to the lips. So they are essentially a version of sheer lip glosses (your lips will NOT look blue). But because of the blue tint, the effect is sheerer than sheer. The lips appear see-through and jelly-like and, in most cases, more plumped. Again, love it.

Also, Kevyn Aucoin’s blue lip gloss (Liquid Cyber Lips in Alurabliss) is said to be able to add depth and dimension to the lips to make them look fuller. (It is basically the same idea in different words.) You can see the actual tube here.

(In a similar vein, the reason why brands like Shu Uemura has a pastel blue loose powder is that it gives a clear and transparent look to the face.)

Onto the blue lip glosses I have:

DiorKiss 198 Plum Tart:
This is a limited-edition item in spring 2005. It has small glitters of various colors. As with all DiorKiss lip glosses, it gives a really glassy and syrupy finish.

Guerlain by Emilio Pucci Lip Gloss 03 Sparkling Sea:
It has very sparse blue and green glitters and creates a wet sheen on the lips (not as glassy as DiorKiss). (Limited edition for summer 2007.)

DiorKiss 208 Mint Lemonade:
Again, very glassy and reflective. It has some subtle green shimmer. (Limited edition for summer 2007)

All in all, blue lip glosses are not bizarre. If you come across any of them, give it a go. Who knows…you might love it too!

{ 14 comments }

Featured Article: Lash Out While Looking Your Best (by Livia Mercer)

by PJ on Tuesday, May 22, 2007

in -Dior, -YSL, makeup, makeup - mascara


It is mascara galore today, as I feature an article by Livia Mercer, founder and editor of The Beauty Review, the number one on-line beauty and cosmetics magazine in Australia and New Zealand.

Trained and qualified as a beauty therapist, Livia is someone that is truly passionate about beauty. She has worked for several cosmetics companies and owned a hairdressing salon. She then founded and edits her own magazine to help consumers make informed decisions in shopping for beauty products, as she believes that more information and education about cosmetics is needed from an unbiased medium.

The thing I love the most about this magazine (apart from the free subscription) is the Product Reviews, where beauty products are reviewed by a panel of consumers each month. We get to see a good range of feedback of each product, which I think is very refreshing.

Now, reviewing some of the best mascaras around, take it away, Livia!

Mascaras are the most often purchased makeup product on the market. Considering you are supposed to replace your mascaras every three months chances are you will purchase over 250 (give or take a few) mascaras in your lifetime. Therefore cosmetic companies are desperately trying to come up with newer and better formulations to catch your eye so it is their mascara you will be buying next. I’m not complaining at all.

I love all the new textures, formulations, brushes and innovations that are being put into mascaras. It is just so hard to keep up with them all.

To help you in this regard we have bought together some of the latest and the best mascaras (according to us). If you have your own favourites, feel free to write to us and tell us why.

Christian Dior, Diorshow Blackout. Spectacular Volume Intense Black-Kohl. This mascara will give you the most powerful and intense black colour using kohl that has been used since the ancient times to intensify the eyes. It uses a derivative of Arabic gum, similar to that used to set the Egyptian hieroglyphics for eternity. This added to a Black fix complex ensures your Charcoal- like finish remains perfect throughout the day.

Max Factor Masterpiece Volume and Definition Mascara. The secret to this mascara lies in the design of the patented brush. It is made of thermo plastic, rather than nylon, so they are uniquely soft and flexible. This means they can conform to reach every last lash from root to tip. The brush design is exactly the right size to reach the base of the lashes. It has the flexibility to reach and define even smaller lashes, bottom lashes and those at the inner and outer corners of the eyes.

Yves Saint Laurent Everlong Mascara, the first mascara with two-way lengthening action. An instant make-up effect with the new generation brush that also uses plastic bristles and is so supple it allows you to perfectly separate the lashes while coating them from base to tip. Then it has a longer term treatment action, thanks to an innovative Lash Growth Booster complex that stimulates the growth of the lashes and protects them from drying out.

L’Oreal Telescopic Mascara. Once again a unique brush design. It is called a precision multi-comb and it is a four sided brush that initially takes some time to get used to but it really does give you a fantastic effect. The formulation contains extremely fine wax globules which creates a smooth film that stretches, allowing for a very smooth application. It also has a special polymer that helps the mascara to lengthen the lashes and also has Pro-Vitamin B5.

Napoleon Long Black Mascara. Once again the brush takes centre stage with this mascara. This is actually a bent wand applicator that makes it really easy to get to all your lashes. The formula of the mascara is also very good giving an intense black look to the lashes and it also contains lash conditioners such as allantoin, candellia wax and beeswax.

Avon Superfull Mascara. This mascara again leads with the new patented Clean Build Brush. It is a thermoplastic design that creates natural volume by separating and combing the lashes while delivering more mascara continuously from the base to the tip. The formulation of the mascara is called an anti-static building formula and it has a clump free delivery.

Couleur Caramel Mascara. For all those ladies who suffer with very sensitive eyes, now we have an 87% natural mascara. It is solvent-free, mainly composed of water, canuaba wax, shea butter and acacia resin. Comes in 4 colours and 2 brushes, one for short lashes and one for long.

(text and images from The Beauty Review, June 2007)

{ 2 comments }

A Splash of Color — Aqua Blue

by PJ on Sunday, May 20, 2007

in _I Love Colors, -Anna Sui, -Dior, -Kao, -Lavshuca, -Sofina, all about Japanese cosmetics, fragrance, makeup, makeup - base makeup, skincare, stash focus


The sun is shining and you are lying on the beach, busy being lazy.

But there’s a masquerade by the sea after sunset. You have your dazzling mask and all your powder and potion to bring out your radiance. All that’s left is to find that perfect floaty summer frock, maybe in blue as well……?

—————————-

Makeup

Sofina Raycious: Glamorous Skin Powder
Lavshuca: Eye Color Select BU-1
Lavshuca: Eye Color BG-1
Dior: DiorKiss 198 Plum Tart
Dior: DiorKiss 208 Mint Lemonade
(limited edition for summer 2007)
Gerlain: Guerlain by Emilio Pucci Lip Gloss 03 Sparkling Sea
(limited edition for summer 2007)
Maybelline: Volume Express Waterproof

Fragrance

Anna Sui: Sui Dreams

Skincare

Lancome: Tonique Douceur
KissMe: Lip Care Menthol

Previous Splash of Color: New-Leaf Green
Even more Splashes of Colors to come!

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Chanel Summer 2007 Collection

by PJ on Friday, May 18, 2007

in -Chanel, 2007 Summer, makeup

(pictured: part of my Chanel stash)

Chanel is one of my favorite cosmetics brands, and there is quite a wide selection of new items to look forward to from its summer 2007 collection:

2 Rouge Allure lipsticks
2 Aqualumiere lipsticks
2 Glossimer lip glosses
2 Joues Contraste blushers
2 Ombre D’Eau liquid eyeshadows
2 single-color eyeshadows
1 4-color eyeshadow palette

There is also a new tinted bronzing gel.

Most of these new colors feature shades of beige, brown, and warm pink. I would prefer a more diverse selection of colors, but, nonetheless, it is definitely a very wearable collection.

The one product I will definitely be testing is the limited-edition Contraste Lumiere Multi-Colour Palette. It includes four lip colors and two eyeshadows. The rich warm hues look great for summer. (Plus, I always like a beautiful palette.)

In Asia, there is another version of the palette. The lip color shades are cooler and so are the eyeshadows (cool pink and lilac). I have to say I like this even more! The colors look soft and feminine, and I happen to have been very interested in lilac and pink eyeshadows these few months.

I think the Chanel Makeup Studio in London’s Harvey Nichols might have it very soon, as it often stocks items only available in Japan or in Asia. I’d definitely hope so!

[Edited on May 19 2007: I just learned that both Contraste Lumiere palettes (called Aquarelles and Mordorees) will be available in the UK.]

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Bring It Back!! Calvin Klein Cosmetics

by PJ on Wednesday, May 16, 2007

in _Bring It Back, -Calvin Klein, makeup

(Pictured above and below: pages from
the Calvin Klein cosmetics catalog)

In the beauty world, Calvin Klein is known for some timeless fragrances. But I will always remember the time when their makeup and skincare line was available in department stores.

The packaging, silvery and transparent, is minimal, sleek, and classic, which is consistent with the Calvin Klein style in fashion. Even though I do tend to favor ornate packaging (like Anna Sui and Paul & Joe), minimal packaging, when done well, is just as exquisite.

The colors seem very neutral, grown-up, and sophisticated (in the Bobbi-Brown kind of way, I suppose). No garish colors or ones that are too experimental. I used to think the colors were too mature. But that was many years ago (and time has certainly passed…).

Once in a while, when I sort out my cosmetics catalogs, I’d glance through these pages and wish I could still see the products in shops.

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I know that some of these are still available on-line. But the line was discontinued several years ago and I can’t help but be concerned about the stock quality. My wild dream, though, would be for Calvin Klein to re-launch the whole cosmetics line!

If you have used any product from Calvin Klein cosmetics (makeup or skincare) before, please do drop a line and let me know about it.

More posts in the “Bring It Back!” series to come!

Edited on June 3, 2007:
First of all, thank all of you who left comments on this post. Also, it seems that Calvin Klein is indeed launching a new cosmetics line very soon. Read about it here. (My personal thanks go to Jeffrey, who wrote this post and brought my attention to it.) Although I personally think the packaging is not as good as it was, let’s hope that the quality stays the same!

Edited on September 27, 2007:
The new Calvin Klein cosmetics line has been launched in Hong Kong. Read about it and see photos here!

{ 24 comments }

Product Review: Just for Redheads — NOT Just for Redheads

by PJ on Sunday, May 13, 2007

in makeup, makeup - eyebrow, makeup - mascara


(Pictured: Just for Redheads’ Brush a Brow,
Brow Stick, and Studio Mascara)

Just for Redheads, as the name suggests, is a line specifically designed for those with red hair and fair skin. Makeup items such as black (or dark grey) mascaras, eyeliners, and eyebrow colors, can simply be too harsh-looking and dramatic for redheads. Warm and auburn hues, in this case, can better enhance the facial features without being overpowering.

If you share this concern, then these goodies might be what you are looking for.

Brush a Brow and Brow Stick (both in Ginger Auburn):

Brush a Brow is a velvety eyebrow powder that goes on smoothly and stays well, while Brow Stick is an eyebrow pencil that is softer than most others. It glides on very easily and creates natural and fluffy-looking brows (not that painted-on look).

The very warm brown tone is of course the main feature. It is that delicious milk-chocolate brown which softly enhances the brows.

Studio Mascara (in Ginger Henna):

What is great about this mascara is that no matter how much I layer it, it does not clump. Although it does not volumize the lashes like some others, it superbly defines, separates, and lengthens the lashes to create an effortlessly natural look.

Again, the warm brown tone is spot-on.

As I was trying on these colors, it appeared to me (who has dark hair and medium skin-tone) that they are not just flattering for people with red hair and fair skin. They are suitable for anyone that wants an ultra-natural warm look. I think what Just for Redheads has created are products that can give an understated and elegant radiance to your face.

The full Just for Redheads line also includes a complete range of makeup, foundation, skincare and haircare products.

{ 2 comments }

Product Review: Summer Bottled Up — Bond No. 9’s Coney Island

by PJ on Friday, May 11, 2007

in -Bond No. 9, fragrance

(Photo: from Bond No. 9)

Sometime last summer I was at Harvey Nichols in London and the sales assistant at Bond No. 9 stopped me and introduced me to their concept and some of their fragrances. I didn’t walk away with any but I was impressed with the distinctiveness of many of their creations.

This summer sees Bond No. 9 launch Coney Island, a quintessential summer fragrance. I love fragrances that are light and direct, and Coney Island is my kind of scent. I also love the striking deep aqua-blue glass bottle.

Appropriately marketed as a unisex fragrance, it reminds me a little bit of Giorgio Armani’s Acqua di Gio Pour Homme. Both have lime as a top note and burst with that citrusy energy, while Coney Island is slightly sweeter with caramel as a middle note and vanilla as a base note.

It is a great daytime pick-me-up fragrance and fantastic for a cool early summer evening. Fresh, fun, and totally unpretentious, it smells like fresh air, tropical ocean, and that glass of icy-cold lemonade at the beach. All in all, it is like the prefect summer.

Coney Island is launched on June 1st and online pre-ordering starts in mid-May (3.4 oz. at 180 USD and 1.7 oz. at 125 USD). It will be available at all four Bond No. 9 stores, selected branches of Saks Fifth Avenue, and Harvey Nichols, Harrods, Paris Gallery, Lane Crawford.

Top Notes: margarita mix, melon, guava
Middle Notes: cinnamon, chocolate, caramel
Base Notes: musk, vanilla, cedarwood, sandalwood

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Dior Summer 2007 Collection

by PJ on Wednesday, May 9, 2007

in -Dior, 2007 Summer, makeup

(Pictured: my own Dior stash)

Dior‘s summer 2007 collection is a feast of colors, and there is a wonderful balance between cool and warm tones. It is one of the best summer collections I have seen so far.

Dior Summer Play, lip color in a dice, is the sister to Dior Play, which was part of the Christmas collection back in 2005. This time, the dice has a bronzed and metallic exterior with a faux-leather string. One features a very sheer pink and the other has a slightly more opaque coral.

The two eye palettes are so gorgeous. 130 (Blue Croisette) includes a stunning selection of soft blue/lavender hues, while 440 (Sunset Cafe) has flattering shades of gold and brown.

I always want to see more interesting colors from DiorKiss lipglosses, and I have got my wish this season. The colors look fresh and remind me of tropical fruit. (I just bought the one in Mint Lemonade (#208) and I will review it later on.)

Blushers, bronzers, lipsticks, an eyeliner, and a mascara complete this very extensive collection, which creates a soft and sultry look with light pastel shades for both eyes and lips. The array of colors is a joy to behold, and you can get the whole summer look with this collection. Have fun trying everything on!

{ 6 comments }

A Splash of Color — New-Leaf Green

by PJ on Sunday, May 6, 2007

in _I Love Colors, -Ayura, -Bulgari, -Chanel, -Lancôme, all about Japanese cosmetics, bodycare, fragrance, makeup, stash focus


The weather is getting warm again, as the soft gentle green hue of new leaves is everywhere.

Bring that atmosphere into your boudoir…

——————————————————
Makeup:
Chanel: Irréelle Duo in River-Light
Von Natur: Eye Color in Chrysocolla

Fragrance:
Bulgari: Eau Parfumée au Thé Vert Extrême
Lancôme: Aroma Tonic

Bodycare:
Ayura: Spirit of Ayura hand cream
Ayura: Spirit of Ayura body lotion
Imperial Leather: Green Tea and Kaffir Lime handwash

.

More splashes of colors to come!

{ 8 comments }

10 Golden Skincare Rules

by PJ on Wednesday, May 2, 2007

in skincare, What do you think? Beauty topics and thoughts

They are very straightforward, and, quite frankly, blatantly obvious. But are you doing all of them?

1. Wear sunscreen. Every day. All your life.

2. Sleep well (quality and quantity).

3. Eat well (balance and variety).

4. Exercise (intensity and regularity).

5. Don’t smoke.

6. Moisturize.

7. Take off your makeup as soon as you don’t need it on.

8. Learn to read the ingredient lists of skincare products.

9. Stay hydrated. (Don’t overdo alcohol, coffee, or tea.)

10. Control the stress. (Don’t let it control you.)

These all come from my own experiences. As you can see, there is nothing new here. No miracle product. No secret remedy. I always believe we don’t need to spend a lot of money to have great skin.

Also, you have probably noticed that many of them are not directly related to skincare. I think we all need to be constantly reminded that our lifestyle can affect our appearance as much as what we put on our skin.

Go through the list. What have you been doing already? What needs to be improved? Sometimes we get so obsessed with what to buy at drugstores that we forget that skincare is not just the matter of choosing the right cleanser or exfoliator……

Every little thing you do to improve your overall lifestyle, it will improve your wellbeing and you’ll look better!

{ 14 comments }

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