icyabstract makeup

A Look at Dior Summer 2013

icyabstract — Fri, 10 May 2013 19:37:49 SGT

After the continuous slew of haul posts, here's a quick look at what vibrant delights Dior has to offer this Summer!

Putting out a splash of color and products to beat the Summer heat, Dior's summer releases see a tropical themed release with the Bird of Paradise collection followed by some hot hot heat in the Dior Summer Mix. To top it all off, what is the best way to bask in the heat while still looking put together? Why not try the Diorskin Forever Extreme Control Powder Foundation.

Let's take a quick peak at each of the collections!

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Bird of Paradise

Already available at Dior counters, the Bird of Paradise Summer 2013 collection plays with eye-catching cool hues to battle this hot summer heat!

This collection comes with a good mix of products and have you covered from eyes to lips, cheeks and nails!

(glosses are from the Dior Addict Gloss launch which I have not gone into detail about, oops)

For those who have not checked out this collection at Dior counters, here's what it includes:

Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Blush / Bronzer Duo in Pink Glow
1 Couleur Eye Gloss (4 shades)
5 Couleur Eyeshadows (2 shades)
Vernis Nail Duos (2 sets)
Jelly Lip Pencils (3 shades)

The US release of this collection sees some extra items such as a coral variant of the Nude Tan Paradise Duo (while we only have the pink), though it seems they seem to be short of the 4 Eye Glosses that we have with our release. But I could be wrong.

Regardless here are quick photos of the items!

5 Couleur Eyeshadows -

Vernis Nail Duos -

Duo pictured above is 'Samba', and here is the right shade swatched on Sophia; thanks for letting me snap your swatch!

Not pictured is the Bahia duo which was not present but here is the blue/pink combo, from WillPaintNailsForFood.

Diorskin Nude Tan Paradise Blush / Bronzer Duo -

More about this beauty to come!

1 Coleur Eye Gloss -

The Jelly Lip Pencils were not available at that point of time but I have 1 on hand and will talk a little more about it in another post.

As mentioned, the Bird of Paradise collection is currently available at Dior counters and I would suggest you head down and grab what catches your eye!

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Moving on from something that is already out to an up and coming release. Stated to launch 10th June is the new Diorskin Forever Extreme Control Powder Foundation.

Diorskin Forever Extreme Control

A foundation created to last through the hot Summer heat (which is Singapore's weather 90% of the time), Diorskin Forever promises exceptional wear time while perfecting the look of your skin.

Combining a matte-effect with a light-weight feel, Diorskin Forever sweeps across the skin leaving a velvety finish that is said to last and last in extreme Summer conditions.

Those who fear the flat and caked-on look of heavy-sounding powder foundations can be at ease as Diorskin Forever Powder promises a perfect yet skin-like look.

With a blend of smoothing micro-beads and powder plaques (not plague, mind you) along with matte mother of pearl (I know, I am confused myself), this helps to reflect light and illumine skin texture without any appearance of shine.

If shine has always been your worst nemesis and you avoid dewy looks or finishes, this sounds like an interesting alternative to look into without flattening the dimensions of your face!

The secret to its amazing wear lies within the Control Wear Complex™. This absorbent micro-pearl works behind the scenes to control and capture excess sebum. This allows the foundation to stick closer to the skin, without being eaten away by facial oils, and gives you a lasting and also matte appearance for an extended period of time.

Well now, I know that's a lot of theory for a quick introduction to this Summer base so I shall leave it at this for now.

I have received a Compact from Dior and would be giving this foundation a go, reporting back once I have gathered my findings. Fingers crossed that perhaps this could truly be a miracle product for our climate!

I have mentioned Summer Mix in the paragraph above but I cannot share about it as of now though do look out for this hot, heated and vibrant collection soon! Mentions will probably be popping up in June, if I manage time for it.

Thanks for reading! Are you spying on any Summer release / products?

Review & Redeem! – Bepanthen Ointment, Not Just for Babies

icyabstract — Thu, 09 May 2013 01:24:17 SGT

From the folks that bring you Redoxon and other health supplements, here is Bepanthen® Ointment - an ointment targetted at treating nappy rash.

Now before the term 'nappy rash' has you clicking out this post, hear me out.

While predominantly advertised for soothing Nappy Rash in babies (or even elderly folks who rely on adult diapers), it does have other skin healing and soothing properties as well.

What's more if it is gentle enough for a baby's bottom you can be rest assured that it will be free of any harmful or strong subtances that could irritate or ignite sensitivity in skin.

For a start, you would be glad to know that this is paraben-free, fragrance and preservative free.

That aside some nappy rash creams, or multi-purpose skin soothing ointments, rely on Zinc Oxide to help construct that waxy film of ointment.

While Zinc Oxide is an approved chemical to be used within creams, there are some parents who have raised concerns regarding that and I don't blame their cautious-ness. After all, a baby's delicate skin is about 30-50% thinner than ours.

(From Bepanthen)

In a sleek, handy and sturdy tube, Bepanthen can easily fit into and withstand some tossing around in your diaper bag.

Healing –

The main healing tool in Bepanthen is Vitamin B5, which is crucial and optimal for healing rash. The science of it is when this vitamin comes in contact with skin, it converts to something called pantothenic acid, which boosts cell regeneration and promotes the healing of skin. Vitamin B5 is also known as a moisturizing agent in certain skincare and hair care products.

Anti-Bacterial –

While not an antiseptic (because that can be harsh on delicate skin), Bepanthen does have anti-bacterial properties through the ingredient benzalkonium chloride.

Lubricating –

Bepanthen also contains almond oil which works great for lubricating the skin, softening and also soothing the affected area. The soothing effect works especially well to rid of any discomfort caused by the rash.

– As A Nappy Cream -

Because the main point of this item is it being a Nappy Cream, with my experience with it on baby, I'd say this gets the job done.

I did not know how easy it would be for little ones to develop Nappy Rash, until I experienced it for myself (not literally of course). Nappy rash can get quite severe, from what I have seen on it and I doubt I want to scare or shock you with an inflamed baby's bum but google at your own risk.

Previously I was using PURE by Phyto (Paw paw) which also worked rather well but because it is of an oilier nature and extremely natural (as proclaimed by the brand), it does separate into oil and paste and could get quite messy with use.

Bepathen dispenses like a creamy balm that spreads on very easily and 'sticks' firmly on the skin.

For the effectiveness of this on a baby's bum, I'd say like skincare it should vary from child to child but there are loads of positive feedback about Bepanthen and I guess I am adding mine to the sea of it.

With one application (once any redness is detected), I have noticed that the redness subsides and any mild bumps that may have been forming would ease off and the skin appears normal and clear once more.

Speaking of adults, while this is a Nappy Rash cream, who says we can't snitch a little bit of it for ourselves too.

– As a Multi-purpose Cream -

Nappy cream aside, I have tried this on myself for skin issues such as dry patches, eczema itches, mosquito bites and moisturizing dry areas (like elbows).

The cream is of a rather thick texture but blends out quite well and doesn't leave a greasy patch. It is tacky due to the ointment factor but it does not slip and slide all over the place, I find.

I have enjoyed it for protecting and aiding with healing on dry and rash patches of my skin. With that said, those battling eczema or rash may find this quite a nice product to have around to soothe the dry itch and also facilitate with skin healing. It isn't a miracle worker and doesn't yield overnight results (because it is meant to be somewhat gentle still) but it certainly is a good duo to use on top of any eczema medication you may already be using.

Afterall, I personally find while eczema medication zaps the rash, it totally sucks the skin dry as well so a bit of tender loving care balm would be nice.

That aside, something I uncovered (because of the interesting Google Suggestion) is that Bepanthen is recommended by tattoo artists to help condition and soothe the itch you get from a new tattoo. It also helps to protect the agitated skin and encourages it to heal!

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Though enough of all that talk, instead of just reading about what I have to think about it, why don't you give it a shot yourself!

Bayers is offering a set of Full-sized Bepanthen Ointment + Diaper Clutch for the first 300 readers* who register for this freebie via their website!

*after the first 300 have redeemed, subsequent readers will still receive a 3.5g Bepanthen sample!

It is completely fuss-free and after filling in some quick details you would have a full-sized tube of Bepanthen Ointment to try on your baby, gift a friend or relative with a baby or even use it on yourself to soothe dry skin and rash!

Redeeming Your FREE Bepanthen Ointment!

Very simply, visit Bepanthen's website by clicking here!

Once on the site, click on button to 'Claim Your Free Sample!'

Next, fill in a simple form with quick information for Bepanthen to arrange for a delivery of the product to you.

BUT!

don't forget to input 'icyabstract' within the 'Promotional Code' area so they will know if you are within the first 300!

It's as simple as that!

Quick ground rules would be:

This sample redemption is only opened to those residing in Singapore only.
1 residential address is only entitled to 1 sample redemption
Lastly, do allow up to 14 days for the delivery of the product (handled from Bayer's end, not mine)

It's that quick and fuss-free. Though if you prefer to purchase or are considering to after trying your sample, Bayer retails at Watsons or Guardian for S$8.95.

Redeem Your Free Sample! >>

Well thanks for reading and hope while it is baby-news it is also informative and helpful to everyone reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Haul: That Pretty Pink Powder - Diorsnow White Reveal Pure Transparency Loose Powder

icyabstract — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:25:07 SGT

Remember my not-so-secret obsession with loose powder?

Apparently that struck me full force when I laid eyes on the (rather) new Diorsnow White Reveal Transparency Loose Powder SPF 15 PA++. Obsession aside, I did try to be rational and not purchase it on my first encounter with it, giving myself time to really think it through.

Yet I could not forget about the powder no matter how much I tried and in my theory - if you can't take your mind off it, you need it.

Perched quietly in the skincare category, the Pure Transparency Loose Powder (shortened name from here on) is enriched with Icelandic Glacial™ Water, which gives it the 'Pure' factor within the name.

Quick titbit about Icelandic Glacial™ Water - It is a natural spring water derived from the glacials of Iceland; it poises itself as the "purest water on Earth". Crystal clear in quality, this spring water contains a mineral rich mix of Calcium, Magnesium and more, leaving it with an alkaline ph level. Another quick point, alkaline water is good at soothing our skin by balancing the ph levels in our (usually acidic) skin.

While I found out all that good stuff only after the purchase while putting this post together, what drew me in would be the very frivolous fact that... the powder is pink!

Cheap thrill, check out that lovely snowflake design on the sifter!

Call me a sucker for such antiques but the soft pink (or Crystal Lilac, as Dior describes it) hue serves a purpose as well.

This pastel rosey shade helps to brighten dull complexions, reduce redness on the skin and provide an overall fresh, healthy glow look to the skin.

Brightening, Correcting and Fresh radiance? Maybe I am biased towards my own concerns of appearing dull-skinned but that is ticking all the right boxes for me!

The pink factor aside, the powder itself is very soft and finely milled. With micronized powders, this smooths the surface of the skin in both appearance and to the touch.

Though unlike my rather recent acquisition, NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder, the Pure Transparency Loose Powder is not invisible on the skin.

It does lend some coverage, which I do prefer, as far as face powders go. A light veil of coverage just seems to help wrap everything up and seal them together - the foundation, concealer etc. However the light veil also means that those with tanner skin may want to swatch this first, incase it is too fair on.

While the powder claims to give a healthy glow, do not expect a dewy or outrightly glowy finish. Think highlighters and 'glossy' skin.

The powder illuminates the skin simply by lending a brightened appearance and a very natural / soft sheen, almost like how skin naturally shines. The overall finish of the powder leans towards a more satin look so don't expect dewy with this bugger!

Pardon the red blotches on my hand. No, it is not some odd skin reaction but rather I busied myself with swatching lipsticks prior, hence.

This Loose Powder also comes with a very pretty Dior-adorned powder puff. However as pretty as it is, I feel the puff a little small for my liking.

Though in purpose it functions fine and is fluffy and plush enough to not feel 'cheapy'. Some may like the smaller size for the precision and ease of maneuvering but when it comes to loose powder, I prefer a bigger puff to get the job done.

Product aside, I am also a bit of a sucker for how white and gorgeous the white Dior packaging looks sitting on my vanity.

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While this is a haul entry I loaded it up with a bit of information here and there, hope it wasn't too long-winded or dull to read.

I am currently in the midst of alternating between this and NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder. Though I must admit that NARS's Loose Powder is one contender that is hard to beat!

Diorsnow White Reveal Pure Transparency Loose Powder SPF 15 PA++ retails for S$80 (14gm)

Thanks for reading! What is one loose powder that you use and love?

Haul / On My Nails: YSL Tie & Dye La Lacque - Not Quite A Monochrome

icyabstract — Wed, 01 May 2013 15:25:18 SGT

If you ask me, I think YSL's Tie & Dye La Lacque is quite a genius product.

While simple in function, performing as a glitzy topcoat to add some spice to your manicure, the beautiful and interesting settling of the product makes you need it in your stash.

Which is probably why I ended up with it even though I hardly have time to paint my nails these days.

A Spring 2013 release, these Tie & Dye La Lacques are sold in extremely limited quantities on our shores. Word is that only 24 pieces per color were brought in (to the YSL Boutique at ION only) and they could very well be sold out by now.

I managed to pick one up by dropping by the YSL Ion Boutique when the stocks were in but testers and word of the release was not out yet.

When left to stand (for quite a long while), the polish settles into three beautiful layers, perfectly showcasing the formula.

Though when shaken up, it appears like a shimmery, shiny, and part metallic mixture.

The polish is fairly liquid too hence it is not hard to shake it up.

Going for S$35 each, these polishes give a hint of color with more emphasis on the glowing shimmer and shine.

Hip coat, the one I have here, has a purple-ish hue to it along with occasional flashes of pearly blue and green tones.

Amongst the 4 shades, this caught my eye the most and seemed the prettiest and most unique, though they are all gorgeous.

I did not bother with doing a swatch of it alone because I anticpated the sheerness of it. Thus, here is Hip Coat worn a monochromatic base.

Base Colors –
MAC Dark Enough? + Random White Polish

Base Color + YSL Hip Coat –

Pardon the spam but at certain angles Hip Coat, while being largely purple, can look a little greenish too.

While I applied 2 coats of Hip Coat over the white base, apparently it hardly shows up on camera and the black base has stolen the show. In person, it is a soft irridescent touch but hardly noticeable unless you were inspecting it.

I have a mind to try Hip Coat over a purple base, just to see how it would transform. Though that is if I can find time to paint my nails again!

For swatches of the other shades, do visit Ommorphia!

Though as I had mentioned, they could be sold out locally by now.

Thanks for reading and hope everyone enjoys their (Labour) day off!

The NARS Gift and Haul Compilation

icyabstract — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:41:22 SGT

Excuse how 'NARS' my blog has been but it seems I have unintentionally hauled a fair bit of NARS of late, hence the influx. Though more brands and more mentions are coming up soon, so hang tight!

The items I am about to briefly mention were actually acquired earlier than the Satin Lip Pencils & Schiap.

Basically these are the splurges I had quietly added to my stash, away from the radar of my blog. Heh.

Since they were picked up here and there and I did not have time to do individual mentions each time I got something, here they are all bundled together in a collective entry.

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The first item was one I bought through the help of Mag (makeupstash).

I have heard great things about the NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base and was finally on the very last and drying up bit of my Urban Decay Primer Potion. Thus I figured it is a good time to 'jump ship' and try something aside from my usual UDPP.

Mag helped me pick this up when the NARS counter first hit our shores (yes, that means last year!) thus I have been using it for a good while now!

This swatch picture is rather unnecessary but it does give you an idea of how the NARS Eyeshadow Base works as a good 'grip' for eyeshadows and enhance their pigmentation.

From my experience with it, which is a rather good while now, I am ready to crown this my new Holy Grail eyelid primer. The Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base functions just as well as UDPP in terms of enhancing eyeshadows and making them last, yet with UDPP I find that often times my shadows 'stick' so well that it could make blending a little tough.

I don't want to over run this haul mention with a review so I would leave it at that! If anyone is interested I can share more about the eyeshadow base in another post.

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Moving on to the other 2 items, these were acquired a little more recently - around March this year.

While the Eyeshadow Base was a haul (or custom purchase if you want to be precise), the following 2 items were a gift from the hubs! Long story short, they are belated Valentines' Day presents and we practice the practical gifting method.

Forget chocolates, I'd rather have makeup!

Either ways, aside from thanking the hubs I also have Eliza (our high-end makeup supplier, hurhur) to thank for helping acquire these be it through dropping by TANGS or facilitating an online order!

Starting with the more 'basic' of the two, I had my eyes set on the NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder when word of it got out.

The online reviews, mentions and comparison pictures made it such a big deal that I just had to have it. What's more I have this subconscious and un-admitted obsession with loose powders but I will save that confession for another time.

The sneak-preview overviews, reviews and comparison images (Beautylish, looking at you) threw this product into an intensely bright positive light that I knew I wanted it even without having to check it out in person.

The initial game plan was to purchase it online but the TANGS 12% came along while we were staring at this starry-eyed so I got Eliza to pick one up for me in her trip to TANGS (thanks again!).

I personally prefer the loose variant instead of the pressed because it is a lot quicker and easier for me. Though since it is permanent I may find myself with the pressed version sometime down the road!

I don't want to lengthen this entry with a review about this powder here. If anything, that will come on its own later but my verdict of it is that I love it!

The next item to give a quick showcase to is the NARS 413 BLKR Multiple. This also happens to be my very first NARS Multiple!

Yes, I have heard great things about the Multiples but I don't reach for cream products as often as my powders so I never thought to cave, until I saw this beautiful brick red.

The fact that it is an iconic piece (from the 413 BLKR collection) and only available on NARS.com or their New York and Los Angeles boutiques gave it a rather 'deadly' appeal.

For a quick trivia, the 413 BLKR collection pays tribute to NARS's New York City boutique at the address of 413 Bleecker Street. The tones of this collection (greyish and red) mimic the boutique's atmosphere of gray-washed brick walls.

Though back to this Multiple, the 413 BLKR is a beautiful (I cannot stop using that word to describe this) reddish hue that is extremely natural when swatched.

The above is the best shot I coud get of the heavy swatch without it appearing like a wound / abrasion. While that doesn't sound very attractive, you cannot deny that it is does give a very natural appearance.

When blended out, it appears like an natural flush of color on the cheeks, more natural than any other 'flush of color' I may have in my stash.

The powdery smooth texture of NARS's multiples helps in giving it a light and (here we go again) beautiful finish as well.

All in all, while cream is not my thing, this multiple may have creaked open the door to a whole new arena.

Here is one more shot of this beauty.

With that, I wrap up my NARS haul and I believe that should be all for NARS for awhile! Maybe a couple of mentions should I do a LOTD but that aside, I am trying to be good and as we have called it, go on a beauty diet!

Thanks for reading! What brands have you over-indulged in lately?

Haul: Giving in to Schiap (Swatches)

icyabstract — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 16:44:53 SGT

NARS Schiap, oh you funny little thing.

How I come to have this lipstick in my posession is quite a funny obsession because I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with it.

I love how vibrant and interesting the color is, yet I don't particularly like (or rather am getting the hang of) wearing pinks. Though the love/hate portion is a little deeper than that but this is the general gist of it.

Though no matter how bright or how pink, the point is that I caved and got it so I shall will myself to love it.

Regardless, I would not short-change Schiap for the fact that it is a beautiful shocking blue-toned pink. I did not notice this till I was speaking with Sophia but Schiap seems to take on a white pigment somewhere in the base of it, making it appear quite stark on certain skintones.

This starkness was what I feared with it initially. While I am not tanned (anymore, heh), I am not extremely fair either and feared a bit of a Nicki Minaj effect with this shade.

Though thankfully once swatached on, it didn't appear too bad.

NARS Schiap, being a Semi-Matte Lipstick, wraps close to the lips and gives a matted coat of color. It does lend a subtle satin sheen too, to prevent this bold pink from appearing too flat and one dimensional.

In the close-up lip swatches below the sheen seems rather evident but that is the work of my flash and a close shot, it hardly appears this glossy from a usual distance.

Those who do battle some flakiness or dry lips may want to moisturize and use a lip scrub before Schiap-ing it.

Pardon the in-your-face-ness of my lips but here's Schiap for you!

And a candid full face shot for a better representation.

This shocking blue-toned pink is widely compared to the newly released NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Yu, because they are both bright pinks with a cool undertone.

Most would argue that the two are close enough that you do not need both and I do agree with that.

Yet, there is the obvious difference in texture with Yu being smoother to apply and Schiap being more lasting on. Texture aside, there is a very partial difference in the two shades - Schiap is a smidget 'whiter' than Yu, and Yu pulls a little purple on me while Schiap remains more of a pink.

The difference is so minor that when worn, no one would be able to tell them apart yet it pleases me enough to have both in the stash.

If you ask me to compare, I love them both but I am inclined towards Schiap though I have to admit that Yu is easier to slick on.

Perhaps it is the 'whiter' and brighter color of Schiap that makes it feel a little more wearable for me, as Yu could pull a little deep and 'dressy'. Though who am I kidding, bright blue-pinks alone are a dressy statement in itself.

With all that said, I am glad to finally own this rather iconic piece of NARS in my stash.

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It is thanks to Mag (of makeupstash) that I hopped onboard with this shade, after much deliberation.

The whole aspect of it having a waiting list of 2,000 names and it being a shade that is constantly out of stock just pushed me over the edge when a batch of Schiaps arrived on our shores.

Word is that once out of stock it would take awhile for the restock so if you have been intrigued with this shade for awhile, it's best to pick it up while stocks last!

Schiap (/ NARS Semi-Matte Lipsticks) retails for S$38.

Thanks for reading! What is your favorite bright lip shade?

A Tag Post! - Beauty Blogger Tag (& Facts About Me)

icyabstract — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:13:58 SGT

Hello! It has been a long while since I have done a tag or a questionaire entry.

Because I feel the sort of entries I am churning out, or have a mind to put out are a bit of a ho-hum lately, I thought I would do take a little breather (for myself and hopefully you) and wander into a quick tag post that I chanced upon on Roseanne's blog.

I hope these Questions and Answers are interesting enough for you so... here goes!

(inserts mandatory self-shot else the entry is all words)

I think I am wearing NARS Majella here. Think.

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1. Do you wear the same style everyday or do you change it?

Somewhat a yes and no. In terms of makeup my looks are rather standard yet I do change and try various shadows / shades if I have the time for it. Though my favorite way to switch up my every day look is by playing around with my lip shades - a bold red one day, a nude, an orange-red or pink the other etc.

2. Do you do your own mani/pedi or go to a salon?

I prefer to file, buff and paint my nails on my own. Maybe it is because I don't have a whole lot of time to sit around now? It sounds like a nice indulgence to have once in awhile yet sometimes I feel what I do is enough for myself. ha!

3. How long does it take for you to put on your make-up?

My usual look with mascara and the works takes me about 30 minutes (a big improvement from the 1 hour that it used to take me!) while quick looks can take 5-10 minutes and elaborate / smokey ones taking longer of course.

4. What do you do first? Face or eyes?

My Face! Unless I am doing a smokey or glittery look where I know I will encounter a crap load of fall out, otherwise I always do my face first. It helps me gauge the eyelook better, somehow.

5. Do you “collect” make-up or just buy what you need when you need it?

To a certain extent I 'collect' yet I do use what I 'collect' as well so nothing remains sitting around just for display. Though of late I am starting to be more rational with my purchases and don't simply buy something for the sake of owning it. Unless it really is super duper pretty, heh. We all have weaknesses.

6. How often do you wear false lashes?

Hardly ever. I would wear them for Fashion Features just because they make the overall makeup look appear better on camera and occasionally during events but otherwise mascara is usually enough for me.

7. Do you do a full face of make-up everyday?

Everyday meaning work day then yes, pretty much. I wear close to nothing on weekends unless I have something on.

8. Do you wear make-up when you are home alone or with family?

No of course not. Who would though... just wondering.

9. Will you leave the house without make-up?

Yes. If you asked me this 4 years ago maybe my answer would be 'NEVAAAA' but over the years I have started to feel more comfortable in my own skin and aside from filling in my very sparse brows, I have ventured to Orchard without anything else on so I would say going without make-up is not a big deal to me now.

10. How many high end products do you have?

I sure don't have a lot compared to others yet I don't keep track either. Why would I?

11. How often do you change your handbag?

Whenever I need a new one. ha! I am quite fuss free in this aspect. I used to match my bags to my attire but now I just couldn't be bothered. If everything fits, I'm good to go.

12. What time do you get up and go to sleep?

Since it is back to work, I wake up at 7 plus in the morning. As for my bedtime, it is highly dependant on what time baby wants to sleep; if I am lucky, it is usually around 12 or 1am

13. How often do you work out?

Now, sad to say, never.

14. Do you speak a foreign language?

I don't speak it well but I can understand basic conversational korean and I can read hangul, that's about it. Though I am intrigued with languages and if I had the chance / time to I would love to pick up more.

15. How did you come up with your blog name?

Oh no, not this question again. Basically icyabstract is a username that my younger teenage self created and it just stuck around till now. If I had a choice I would have renamed my youtube / blog something less poser-sounding.

16. What kind of camera do you use for photographs?

For the most part my trusty SONY A350 though occasionally I throw some mobile shots on here too.

17. What is your favourite color?

Purple! Though specifically I like the light pastel variants of it, such as lilac and lavender.

18. What are you doing with the rest of your day?

TGIF! After the mandatory bore at work, the rest of the day includes some catching up with beauty pals, playing with makeup and then date night with hubs before returning to mommy duties.

Hope everyone's Friday sounds awesome be it chilling or just resting!

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And that is the tag! Word is the original tag is a whole lot longer but Roseanne (who I got these questions from) filtered them down to 18 more relevant questions. While I was not tagged by her to do it and picked it up to do on my own, I hope no one minds. I just needed a little entry to just ramble and 'unwind' in.

With that said, I tag Eliza, Sophia and Mabel to do this tag and anyone else who is interested!

Thanks for reading and do bear with me again in these busy periods where my blog is at a bit of a lull.

Haul: NARS Satin Lip Pencils (Swatches)

icyabstract — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 19:16:12 SGT

Lip pencils are all the craze now and I would happily say that I love this craze. The idea of taking a lip product and modelling it into a fat crayon is somehow incredibly adorable to me (yet I do not own the pioneer Chubby Sticks, odd?).

While the lazy me would prefer if all lip pencils came in a twist-up form so we would not have to fuss with sharpening, I am so impressed and in love with the NARS ones that, NARS, I shall forgive you this time.

Ha, well who am I to forgive NARS but truthfully the sharpening factor did hinder me a little from splurging on more of these lovely pencils. Out of the 12 shades, I managed to be good and only walked away with 2.

While several other shades are haunting me right now (Luxembourg, Isola Bella and Golshan, I am looking at you), I do believe I can go without them.

The two shades that I got, Majella and Yu, are a little more unique to my stash and are two rather strong / bold colors. As I am back to donning contacts for work days, I have no qualms with giving bold lips some love.

Majella - Garnet red
Yu - Shocking Pink

Yu is a shade that I would typically steer clear of due to my 'fear' with wearing pinks, especially bright blue-toned ones. Though now, with a new (hair) do, I am determined to try and conquer that spectrum.

After all, I had eased my way into red lips and grown rather comfortable with it now so why not stark, bright pinks. Yes?

Here's a hand swatch of the pencils!

The formula of these Satin Lip Pencils are a dream.

The minute I swatched them on the back of my hand, I knew it was going to be quite a struggle to just settle for 2.

The Satin Lip Pencils swatch with intense pigmentation coupled with an incredible glide on the lips. They leave, as the name goes, a satin-like finish and a soft stain for the deeper / brighter shades.

It appears rather glossy in the close-up due to the camera flash but while a slight sheen is evident, I would not classify them as glossy.

- Majella -

Majella was love at first swatch.

While an intense red, it isn't too bright and has an interesting depth to the shade. It is incredibly pigmented and dressy when worn in full pigmentation but I like it best worn as a stain.

In fact, I wore it as a stain (while it slowly faded out on its own) in the hair makeover entry!

I have since worn this shade endlessly to work and tote it around in my makeup pouch for touch ups (as these do not entirely survive a meal).

- Yu -

Yu requires a little more effort to wear just because I am getting used to seeing myself in this tone of pink, or rather in pink in general!

Though Yu is a beautiful purple-pink. striking enough yet not as stark as I had imagined it to be, which is a yay to me if you were wondering.

On me, while the theoretically correct term is blue-toned, it tends to lean a little purple and give off a slight plum edge amidst the bright pink.

I have also picked up NARS's Schiap Lipstick, a shade that many have compared Yu to. Though that little comparison would be up in Schiap's post to come!

❧

These pencils are retailing at S$37 each and definitely worth every bit of it given the intensity and amount of product. I doubt I would ever finish a whole lip pencil but we'll see!

If brights aren't your thing, the neutrals are worth a look too! The formula on those are just as lovely.

Thanks for reading!

Hair Makeover at Headlines Hairdressing!

icyabstract — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:40:57 SGT

I have been whining about my mop for a good long while, with very good reason too, and finally I managed to find time to let an expert whip something better out of it.

I had been approached by Headlines Hairdressing towards the end of last year but unfortunately I was in my confinement period and had a bigger (yet smaller in size) worry than the state my hair was in.

After what has seemed like a long while of adapting to life and eventually fretting about self maintanence, I swung by the salon and let them work their professional magic on my, affectionately nicknamed, mop.

Incase you haven't seen enough of the sorry out-grown stage, here it is for the last time!

My appointed hair stylist is Jerry, who has a great idea about what a good and suitable hairstyle is all about.

All hair stylist have gone through training so, what do I mean by that?

Well, in my own terms I do love the bright and bolds. I don't deny that they are beautiful, unique (or used to be), and definitely bring out a vibrant / striking change. Though the basis of a good hair stylist, I feel, is one who is able to properly recommend a hairstyle and color that enhances your features or is able to best adapt and recommend a style to fit your lifestyle or any other concerns.

With that said, the goal of this 'makeover' is to refresh my hair and suit the whole fuss-free aspect that I require right now, hence don't expect something overly whacky or a bold splash of bleach / color with this one.

❧

Here is the pre-snip analysis where Jerry examined my hair and had a quick chat about what I wanted or needed my hair to be like.

What we have derived post-analysis is:

I wanted to chop my hair down - I wanted a shorter do so it is easier to manage and also because baby kept tugging on my long hair. That coupled with post-pregnancy hairfall is quite a nightmare.
I wanted a fuss-free hairstyle - short hair sometimes require more effort in styling and managing and I didn't have time for that.
I needed a refreshed look and coat of color - my outgrown hair color and faded tones gave my hair a brassy and unhealthy look so I was seeking to refresh that.

Basically, I wanted it short, fuss-free yet still looking good with minimal maintenance. That was the gist of it, so this happened!

While I could write an essay about what happened, I figured that I would let pictures do the talking first and elaborate after for those interested to know.

Let's begin!

Hair layering and trimming in progress.

Now, on to fixing that overgrown brassiness.

So, after that series of photos, here's a step by step rundown of what Jerry did to my hair if you are interested!

My hair was first chopped and then layered at a strategic length such that it minimizes the 'curling all over the place' effect that short hair brings.
Jerry kept the layers long so it doesn't get too unmanageable, yet short enough to give the hair some volume.
He then proceeded to add 3 different shades / tones to my hair
The first thing he did was to add some highlights, a great way of giving the hair lift without having to bleach the entire head or bleach very extensively.
Next he used a darker ash-black/brown shade on the crown of my head as my post-pregnancy hairfall has thinned that area a little so the darker shade gives the illusion of volume (and highlights prevent it from being 'flat').
Lastly he mixed a subtlely lighter ash-black/brown for the bottom portions so the whole look doesn't seem too heavy or flat.

What happens after? Well, we wait....

p.s. if you notice the base of my scalp, the ash-brown/black shade that Jerry used has a blue-tone and if you have bleached-blond hair, this would be a gorgeous ash-blue. Sounds intriguing!

Now, while it sounds like a lot of steps and procedures above, you may look at the final result and go... All that for this?

Yet, like the no-makeup makeup look, it is easy to throw on bright splashes and tone (skill is still required, yes) but making something look completely natural and put together while appearing like no effort was done is sometimes quite a tricky and long procedure.

So what is the final outcome after close to 3 hours in Headlines Hairdressing?

Here's the final look!

Under in-door lighting the shade looks like an almost-black yet under sunlight or certain other lightings, you would be able to see the brownish tone and shades of ash.

While the highlights on the crown are of a more golden tone, the highlights towards the bottom are an ashier shade.

Hope you do not mind the spam of self shots but here is how it looks in daylight!

The ashy highlights at the bottom are most obvious in these shots:

Having short hair was never a preferred option of mine yet due to the ease of it now (post-preg hair fall & baby's pulling habits), I took the plunge to chop my locks off.

Though I am glad to say that somehow Jerry had worked his magic and made me accept and even like the shorter do that I currently have.

Unlike the short styles I have had before, I feel this honestly compliments my face and is extremely fuss-free. I could spam you with more photos of my hair but I think you will see them in due time with LOTDs and also swatch images.

In all, I think having an expert opinion on cut / color and style does make a huge difference and I am glad for this long-term sponsorship from Headlines Hairdressing! You will hear a little more of them here and there over the course of the year and I think my hair is quite glad for all this attention after that long period of neglect.

❧

If you would like to refresh your hairstyle and have no idea what you would like, leave your hair in the hands of Jerry, I assure you he will not disappoint!

A little trivia, Headlines Hairdressing are best known for their hair perming, straightening and treatment services though I have not tried those yet to offer an insight.

HEADLINES HAIRDRESSING
18 Cross Street, #01-15
China Square Central.

Operating Hours:
Monday - Friday 10.30am - 8.30pm
Saturday 10.30am - 7pm
Sunday & Public Holidays 10.30am - 5pm

Jerry is personally off on Thursdays.

Do call +65 6221 6866 to book an appointment as their schedule can be quite packed!

Also, check out their Facebook Page for more of their 'works'!

Quote 'SARA' at the salon for a 15% discount!
*not applicable for promotions

I don't want to go on forever but yes I do love the refreshed look.

Thanks for reading and do share your thoughts, short hair on me – yay, nay?

Disclosure:
Services provided are courtesy of Headlines Hairdressing for review / sharing purposes.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Haul: A Shu Uemura Brow Routine!

icyabstract — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 19:36:21 SGT

While I am still in the midst of doing minor tweaks to the fonts around the site, do let me know if anything shows up a little oddly on your screen or if the fonts are too hard to read from your end.

Yes, feel free to say, what's up with the change, are you trying to blind me?!

Afterall, I wouldn't want to make something aesthetically pleasing for me yet have it be a total pain in the butt for everyone else. So do comment away! If it's good / you are fine with it, you can go ahead and drop an a-okay too just so I know!

❧

Font aside, here is a haul that (in Eliza's findings) took me 3 years to make!

To elaborate the finding part, basically I had commented (approximately 3 years back) about how I wanted to give these Shu Uemura brow stuff a look and maybe pick them up.

So now, 3 years later, that has happened. Talk about taking my time!

The product I had lusted for is actually the Shu Uemura Hard 9 Eyebrow Pencil (as pictured on the right above). It is one of the products iconic to Shu Uemura and has earned its own name in the world of brow grooming.

The color spectrum it is available in, though rather small, serves a rather sophisticated range of hair colors. Walnut Brown (the shade I picked up) is the only one with a true and strong gold undertone in it. The other shades were darker and of an ashy base, which did not suit my hair (then).

While I can't say I am thrilled about the sharpening option of heading back each time it gets relatively 'blunt', the Hard 9 Pencil has served me well in the few times that I have already used it.

It is somewhat redundant to include a swatch because the pigmentation of this pencil is triggered by contact with your facial oil, brow hair and all. Though here is my faint attempt, regardless

While the 'stem' of the pencil reflects a rather golden tone, it isn't that much of a gold and is still on the scale of a medium brown, perhaps.

The eyebrow manicure, or brow wax, is something I picked up simply to complete the routine.

Over the years, I have gotten into the habit of using a brow wax to add finishing touches to the brows and somehow a quick comb of brow wax very easily seals the whole brow look togther.

I have not eyed or even given the Shu Uemura brow wax (or what they call brow manicure) a look prior so I was fairly intrigued with the unique spoolie design.

Like new-age mascara wands, it comes with varied lengths - one end being shorter and the other with longer bristles.

In my own experience, as I do not need the brow wax to impart too much color, I prefer using the longer bristles to very lightly brush through my brows and set them in the right direction.

Again, the shade I picked up, Honey Glaze, is the lightest and most golden of the bunch.

Though for those with fairly light and golden tresses, you would like to know that while this is the lightest and most golden shade in Shu Uemura, it is certainly not the lightest / most golden in the brow market.

I rummaged in my stash and did a quick comparison shot of what I had and was rather surprised at how much brighter (and more golden) the ones I had and used from before were.

Left to Right: Maquillage Brow Wax, Shu Uemura Brow Manicure, Canmake Coloring Eyebrow

Though in Shu Uemura's defence, their brow manicure shade is of a more sophisticated golden brown tone as the other shades of gold could be a little too gaudy for some.

Unless your hair is honestly in need of that bright a match!

❧

To add more to this rambly haul, I thought why not share some quick pics of my new brows in action! By 'in action' I really just mean them being existent and not wriggling all over like some cadbury advertisement.

The shots were snapped with my trusty-but-not-perfect mobile phone camera hence do excuse the quality.

If you ask me, I would call this the ultimate foolproof eyebrow routine.

The pencil imparts pigmentation through slowly building it up hence you do not have to worry about a stark, deep line caused by accidental pressure. The continual strokes of filling in your brow blends the color rather well and gives the brows a very natural filled in look, if that is what you are going for!

The Eyebrow Manicure imparts just the right about of wax to groom your brows without making the hairs stick together.

Excuse thy act-cute expression, I had to get the shot done without taking a million to QC from. Heh.

Though the one downside is that I have (personally) grown accustomed to using the K-Palette Eyebrow Liquid that this Shu Uemura routine could feel a little time-consuming for me when I am in a hurry, though foolproof nonetheless.

In all, it is a great brow routine in my books and I am quite glad I had finally gotten my hands on them!

I am quite horrible with remembering numbers and can't recall how much they are now but I think it was about the S$37 mark?

Thanks for reading!

Do share, what are you loving right now for your brows?