I don't often switch up the contents in my makeup pouch because everything in there is essentially what I would need already.

On occasions I may throw in an extra lip gloss, lip stick or maybe facial mist though if I don't need them anymore, I usually remember to take them out.

If anything, the one category that 'builds up' the most within my makeup pouch would be lip stuff, for varying reasons. Sometimes I simply forget to take them back out and other times I would deliberately bring them along in an effort to give them more love and (hopefully) use them up.

Nonetheless, here are the items I lug about:

A rundown of items in here (somewhat left to right):

• Anna Sui Oil Blotter
• Gatsby Powdered Oil Blotter
• Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream (travel size)
• Revlon Eyeliner Pencil (which I should throw out...)
• Maquillage Glossy Perfect Rouge in RD306
• Maybelline Moisture Extreme in Natural Nude
• Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in Soft Nude
• Lip Smackers x Paul Frank lipbalm
• Bvlgari Perfume (small sample / travel vial)

I have a couple of items which I photographed separately and listed in this entry but those are mainly a powder compact, spft protection, 1 more lip item and liner / brow stuff.

I know the first question I may get is... why do you carry around two oil blotters?!

Well, because the Gatsby powdered oil blotter is the ultimate oil blotter by ridding the icky oil feel and setting the skin, making it feel smooth and fresh again. The Anna Sui oil blotter is non-powdered and reserved for situations where I get nit-picky and feel like my skin is oiling up a little and feeling blah yet it's not oily enough to justify using the Gatsby blotter.

I know... it's strange but does anyone else get what I mean?

As for the lip stuff, I find carry neutral tones would be the easiest so if I am heading out with a bold lip, I would bring that along for touch ups. Otherwise, I would solely rely on what I have in here though of late, the most popular thing I slap on when I need to touch up my lip color is the Maquillage Glossy Perfect Rouge; I am almost out of it!

Everything else is really in there... just cause.

A perfume incase I run out without perfume or my perfume fades away by mid-day, a handcream incase my palms get dry and liners incase I want to intensify my eyelook after a day out.

So do share, what do you carry around in your makeup bag? Do you prefer to be prepared or travel light?

Thanks for reading!

If I had a choice, I would want May to last forever and ever and ever. I would elaborate in another post but basically I'm taking a short break (that is ending, boo) from the hassles of work right now but that aside, the point of this post is the Bellabox that came within the month of May!

This month's Bellabox came within a drawstring bag (housed within the pink box for posting of course). It was a nice change-up to the usual boxes though I hope they go back to the boxes after! The boxes have been perfect little storage space for jewellery and random bits and pieces around the house.

Though on to the contents of the box!

I didn't swatch anything because I handed the entire satchet to my mom.

May's Bellabox is about pampering yourself and pampering your mom but I think I'll leave that for my mom to do. I think I pamper myself very sufficiently already... heh.

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Enavose Cellogist Youth Guard Cream

This product claims to nourish the skin cells from deep within, boost it's natural restorative process and fight the causes of premature aging. I guess I will never know how truly effective this is anytime soon since my mom stocks all sample sized items for travel.

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules

I doubt I really have to introduce this product since it is already known enough as is in the field of anti-aging. Even my mom (who isn't all that into skincare) went 'oooh~' when she saw this. These potent little capsules deliver an intensive dose of restoring a youthful, ageless skin effect while visibly fading age spots and the look of fine wrinkles.

This is a pretty lux product and I'm glad they included something like this in a Moms' Day box!

Essential Damage Care Nuance Airy Shampoo and Conditioner

My mom is a loyal and die-hard fan to Dove (hence how I got my love for it too) and was iffy about trying out other shampoos because she fears they may make her hair limp but she was happy to report that these felt okay for her colored hair. Though eventually, as always, she went back to Dove and 'saved these for travel'.

Macadamia Natural Oil

Now, this one, I am actually itching to try for myself. Aside from containing Macadamia and Argan oil to nourish and rejuvenate the hair, it also claims to reduce dry time by 40-50%! Now that is actually quite an awesome claim for someone, like me, who prefers to air dry yet faces the situation of always showering super late and having to wait for hair to dry before heading to sleep.

Sally Hansen Hard As Nails

This last item was probably what my mom was most excited about because she was just about to pick this up at Watsons the other day. Though she hesitated and figured she would get it the next time when I am around so I get my member points (aww~).

But essentially this helps to harden the nails and prevent them from cracking, splitting and chipping. It's perfect for my mom who has brittle nails but still love to paint them and make them look pretty.

So that is about it for what was in my May Bellabox!

Do drop by Bellabox to find out more about them or if you are interested in taking up a subscription! It costs S$15 monthly and slightly cheaper if you get an annual subscription.

I have also noticed that Bellabox is starting to randomize the content of their boxes so the box contents do vary from person to person. I guess that means more variety but yet I personally (just my opinion) prefer it if everyone received the same thing.

Am I the only one thinking this way?

Thanks for reading!

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

Cheesy titles are back, rejoice!

Anyway, this LOTD is mildly different from the usual. Instead of taking photos of the look when it's all clean and pretty at the start of the day, this was taken at the end of a hot sweaty and pretty much gross day. If only I didn't hit the snooze button a couple more times or took my own sweet time when getting ready, you guys may have had a before shot, but nonetheless.

I wanted to share this look to briefly talk about my makeup selection when I know I will be spending a long (and most probably hot) day out. Put an amusement park into the mix and you would expect water to be thrown at you via rides so... the final verdict is makeup that is long-lasting and waterproof!

Mildly lengthy intro but the following shots were taken after 12 hours of wear without any touching up. The only form of blotting I had done inbetween is using the hand towels (or thick tissues) provided in the washroom because I left in such a rush I forgot my makeup pouch and blotters. Mainly blotters. I had a mini panic attack when I remembered, I swear, but things didn't turn out too bad.

I know, not the most flattering LOTD ever but I think after 12 hours of wear, zero touch up and some form of tissue-blotting between, it's holding up pretty good!

My blush has obviously faded to oblivion and I have zilch lip color on but in terms of foundation it's still providing good and even coverage though my undereye portion is peeking through and some blemishes can be seen. Click to enlarge if you wish to inspect. Not flawless but not naked-skin either!

Of course I have to thank the ever trusty Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation, my HG when it comes to makeup that lasts and lasts. Yet I have also found a new love, the Elizabeth Arden Good Morning Serum. It's not something I use everyday but on occasions that I do, I find my makeup looks good till the end of the day and this scenario perfectly proves it's capabilities.

When it comes to being waterproof, the foundation doesn't matter too much, it's the eyelook!

Because of that, I took out the liner that I only use for heavy duty water and sweat situations, the Majolica Majorca Neo Automatic Eyeliner. I rarely use these on a daily occasion because I can't be bothered to twist up and control the amount of product dispensed but in situations like such, I have to pull it out.

Here's how my liner looked at the end of the day and this was after a lot of water-in-the-face experiences. Dad and I were both enthusiastic about the Jurassic Park float ride (USS) so... yeah.

The 12 hour wear can be seen by the smuding on the lower lash line, mostly contributed by the MAC Powerpoint Liner in Engraved as after 8 hours of wear it typically starts to smoke out. The Majolica Majorca liner on the upper lid is still left very crisp and sharp.

Previously during my Quincy hotel stay, I had actually used this liner as well because I figured I may be splashing around in the pool yet I could be 'called on' anytime and... girls being vain, I didn't want to appear with smudged out liner. Heh!

While this is a LOTD, it seems more like a mini review, probably because... it's a mix of both I suppose. Look-wise, it's really too simple to solely be a LOTD of any interest especially since I threw on my default / go-to eyelook in my subconsciousness.

You know, that feeling when you're so tired in the morning you just do your makeup on auto-pilot?

That aside, here's a feature shot of the 2 lead characters of this entry and a run down of the items used on my face, if you are interested.

Since it's still an LOTD entry I will not go into details of either products but if anyone wants a sole entry or mention with more talks about either's texture etc, do let me know!

Products Used:

FACE
Leaders Clinic Medieu Sun Cream
Elizabeth Arden Good Morning Face Serum
Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation
LUV Long Lasting Loose Powder in Natural Beige (to set)

EYES
Urban Decay Primer Potion
Maybelline Eye Studio Quad in Autumn Spirit
Wet N Wild Palette in Comfort Zone (dark brown - outer v)
Majolica Majorca Neo Automatic Eyeliner in Black
MAC Powerpoint Liner in Engraved
Dollywink Volume Mascara

Highlighted products were provided by companies/distributors,
I was not obliged to use/feature them in LOTDs.

Skipped out on cheeks and lips because there's practically none left of it.

So, long entry aside, the amusement park I am referring to here is actually Universal Studios Singapore and this was my first time there! I know I'm probaby way late in paying a visit to that tourist attraction so I shan't ramble on because most have probably been there, maybe even more than once.

Ending it off, here are some quick photos from the day! -- (click to enlarge)

Thanks for reading this long rambly post!

What are some of your favorite long-lasing or waterproof products?

p.s. I loooooved Cylon. Probably my favorite ride, right after the cinematic awesomeness of Transformers.

p.p.s I know this entry is a weeeeee bit rambly. Let me know if you prefer entries snipped short!

Hello everyone, hope you are having a lovely Sunday!

In early March I got a chance to attend Elizabeth Arden's little blogger gathering whereby we were introduced to some of their new product launches - the Pretty Hot perfume and an addition to the White Glove Extreme range (which I will talk about later on in this entry).

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Pretty Hot is a follow-up to Elizabeth Arden's previous release, Pretty. I have given Pretty a sniff and like the scent but not enough to pick it up. Somehow I felt like something was 'missing' but this coming from someone who loves a musky note in perfumes. Pretty is a gorgeous soft and girly scent which some may love but others have decided they want something that exudes a more womanly charm.

Cue Pretty Hot.

Described as 'a fragrance of unmistakable sexy confidence', Pretty Hot has a nice mix of vibrant notes along with musk to give an alluring sensous warmth yet with a touch of vibrancy. That way it is not too 'older woman musky' but not too 'girly and light' at the same time.

From the press release:

Top Notes: Red Currant, Blood Orange, Juicy Mandarin, Freesia, Red Apple

Mid Notes: Red Peony, Belle de Nuit (Queen of the Night) Scentrek™, Pimento Blossom, Petalia™, Georgywood™

Drydown Notes: Sensous Amber, White Patchouli, Tonka Crystals, Sandalwood, Cosmone™

I like how unique this scent seems (I find, at least) and I do recommend you spritzing it on and trying it out in-stores. The bottle is a pretty little thing as well with a tinted grenadine shade and a lovely flower disc on the cap.

I have been using this interchangeably with another newly acquired fragrance and I like how Pretty Hot is casual enough to wear to work yet sexy and feminine enough to wear to more up-scale events and banquets. It wears quite well too lasting the entire work day, though noticeably softer and milder by the end of the day.

Prices
100ml Eau De Parfum - S$115
50ml Eau De Parfum   - S$95

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Moving on to another product highlighted during the gathering, the White Glove Extreme Brightening Spot Corrector

This new product contains the two key products found throughout the entire White Glove Extreme Range, Emblica C Complex and Marine Mineral Extract. You can read more about the White Glove Extreme line in this post.

Back to the Brightening Spot Corrector. It is a targetted spot corrector that aims to lighten pigmentation, dark spots and discoloration caused by sun and environmental exposure, one example being freckles. However we were told it's not designed to lighten acne scars though you can try your luck and use this religiously and you could see a difference (no promises though).

This product is light in texture and blends out easily hence you can use it over your foundation during the day, followed by a quick touch up. As this contains a concentrated and stronger amount of brightening ingredients in the formula, it is not advised to be used only in problem areas, not all over.

We were provided enough samples to try out over a period of a month.

My main concern is acne scarring and I don't suffer from much sun-induced pigmentation on my face, though I suppose I could test this out on the freckles on the back of my hand to see how effective it is.

To end it off here are some photos from the event, courtesy of Elizabeth Arden.

Joyce and I!

And some personalised (and yummy!) cupcakes from the EA crew

Thanks for reading (:
About to head off to the airport now. Sadly not to go anywhere but to pick up people who are coming back. I love visiting the airport, for some reason...

Disclaimer:
Products were provided by Elizabeth Arden.
I am not affiliated to them, all opinions expressed are my own.

Here's a collective post about some goodies and gifts I had received. These are not my birthday presents, seeing as my birthday was just over, it could seem like it. This is another post of products compiled from my hiatus period. I thought I would share since it's all in line with makeup and beauty etc.

I believe this should be the last of entries from my hiatus period. I probably have one or two more to mention but I'm still deciding how to talk about those. After that I would be able to go through some post-hiatus entries. Those range from recent lip product hauls to reviews and the update on my skin condition.

A quick word: Goodies and Gifts both theoretically mean the same thing.. However I refer to Goodies as things that companies/distributors/blogshops and beauty gurus have given me - It's basically what some people term as a Sponsored Haul. Gifts, on the other-hand, are... gifts! Like presents from family, friends, that sort of a thing.

Just wanted to take a bit of time to go through that bit incase of any questions on the terms.

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So first up, I'll run through the Goodies.

The first would be from Elizabeth Arden and this was a total surprise package. I was not expecting it and so happened to be heading out when I opened the door to a courier man. Talk about excellent timing too! Turns out Elizabeth Arden had very kindly provided me with some full-sized items from the White Glove Extreme iine.

Daily Moisture Brightening Cream

Brightening Eye Moisture Cream

Elizabeth Arden had seen my video review about the White Glove Extreme line and noticed I was finishing up the product samples we were provided. Those products were the ones I really liked, so they thought to send me the full-sized versions of them. That was such a lovely thing for them to do and I completely appreciated it. This also shows that aside from just providing bloggers with products to try out, they do actually go through our reviews personally and regard what we have to say about it.

The next goodie something fun to receive - the Coca Cola flavored Lip Smackers. I was provided this from StarAsia, the same company that distributes Skin79.

Some might have seen these around select Guardian stores (I know I have!) along with other flavors like Fanta Orange and was it Sprite?

To date I have tried the lip balm and lip gloss, but the Rolly Lip Smacker (extreme right) is still sitting pretty in the packaging. I am not entirely certain what to discuss when reviewing lip balms, but keep a look out for my input on these! Chantana (everbluec) had also gotten these to try out, check out what she thinks about them.

Last Goodie to mention is from a fellow beauty blogger, the lovely Anonymous Bosch.

I had commented on her Nature Republic Recommendation blog post about being intrigued by how good the Eau De Shine foundation sounded and she offered to give me a sample of it to try out. Thank you Anonymous Bosch for that!

This sample is in the shade 21, I believe this is the middle shade from the 3 available. I've tried it once thus far and aside from the nice scent of it, I do like the coverage it provides. The shade fits me well too. I expected it to be a tad light, but it worked out just right on (NC25-30).

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As for gifts, these were from my boyfriend and his parents - a belated valentines day gift (from the boyfriend), and a graduation present (from his parents).

L-R: Jean Paul Gaultier's Ma Dame (from the bf's parents), Juicy Couture's Juicy Couture (from the boyfriend).

I am absolutely horrible at describing scents but I'll try anyway...

Ma Dame: This is probably one of the most unique scents I have ever come across. When sprayed it comes off fizzy and fruity. It almost reminds me of the drink Sarsi, that slight synthetic sweetness - but it's not toffee-sweet. It isn't very strong or obnoxious, but does not come off as a light girly scent either. As this wears on, it almost has a hint of musk in it. The 'brightness' of the fizzy sweet scent is taken down slightly with the musk. It seems to wear quite well for me, but it's not an overly strong scent so halfway through the day you might stop noticing it, unless you proceed to smell your wrist.

Juicy Couture: Most would have probably have sampled/owned this perfume purely because the bottle is adorable. First things first, if you don't like musk, you probably would not like this. This is a rather strong and perhaps cloying scent for some. Even though my boyfriend got this for me, he personally does not like the scent. It is also pretty sweet and it hints slightly at fruit sweetness. I don't like how it smells straight out of the bottle, but rather what it becomes after awhile. It still retains the sweetness but seems to smell a bit more floral and not so overpowering. I have to give kudos to the staying power though, I could smell it through out the day. Though sadly while it lasts well I can't imagine myself wearing this when running errands, It's just too strong a scent for running about in the sun.

I had been eyeing Juicy Couture for super long and I'm thankful that my boyfriend got it for me despite him not liking the scent so much. As for Ma Dame, I had acquired a sample vial of it prior and was pretty surprised at how unique the scent is and have been lemming it for awhile, special thanks to the boyfriend's parents!

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It seems like I might have another obsession arising.

I have been pretty moderated with my makeup purchases lately. I haven't completely banned myself but it's a lot better now although it could be because I have been distracting myself with other stuff like nail polishes and now perfume.

Pardon this entry being super super long, but if you have any perfume recommendations or favorite perfumes, do list it down below! I might just be courting my own death this way, but oh well when the obsession strikes....

Thanks for reading!

Lookie here!
I found photos of this Look of the Day that I somehow never managed to post. This was from quite awhile back (pre-auburn hair), I do like the look so belated or not I'll just post it up anyway!

I was in my neutral phase (since when I was ever out of it, right?) but I wanted to spruce up the look as well so I decided to throw in a pop of lime green.

Pardon the brows, looks like I didn't have time to fuss much with them during my final projects period.

Products Used:

FACE/BROW
Maquillage Lasting Stick Foundation UV
Lumiere Invisi-veil Powder (to set)
K-palette Brow Liner in 02

EYES
Etude House Proof 10 Primer
Benefit Creaseless shadow in Skinny Jeans
ELF Studio Eyeshadow in Mystic Moss
Revlon 12-Hour Colorstay Quad in Nude Elements
Rhomlon Eyeshadow in Black (tiny bit in outer corner)
28 Color Palette (highlight)
Silky Girl Funky Eyelights in Lime Green
MAC Powerpoint Liner in Engraved
Majolica Majorca Lash Enamel Glamour Neo Mascara

CHEEKS
I Nuovi Blush in Dolly

LIPS
MAC Lipstick in Shy Girl
Elizabeth Arden High Shine Lipgloss in Tropicoral

Highlighted products had been provided to me by companies/distributors.

With this post I do want to mention that I have been loving the Elizabeth Arden High Shine Lipgloss in Tropicoral. It's this one right here, from the goodie bag that Elizabeth Arden had given to me.

I find it really comparable to the MAC Dazzleglasses in terms of the way it looks on, the shimmer and glitter but it's not as thick and not as sticky. Though my dilemma about this is that I think this color is a limited edition release?

I had wanted to blog about it and do a comparison on this to MAC's Smile Dazzleglass, but figured if it was limited edition it might be a little evil to do that? Let me know if you guys want that comparison or if you know if this shade is in stock etc.

I have browsed the other Elizabeth Arden High Shine Glosses and it seems the finish is different with different colors. Some are cream, some have shimmer, it seems to vary.

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Another mention, seems like Benefit's Creaseless Shadow in Skinny Jeans is getting a lot of love. See Chantana (everbluec) and Kim (ladeekim)'s recent LOTDs featuring this product.

Chantana - LOTF: Skinny Gazette
KIm - LOTD: Skinny Jeans

I do love that shade, it's great to slap it on alone or use it as a base color. I particulaly like using it under ELF's Mystic Moss eyeshadow since they are almost the same shade. Skinny Jeans tends to give Mystic Moss a stronger base and make it smokier-looking.

Thank you for reading!

I don't often talk about body moisturizersthough I go through them like water because most seem to perform the job adequately. The only thing to describe would probably be scent but otherwise there is not much to say.

This Body Cream however is surprisingly different and I felt I had to give it a mention. I was given this product by Elizabeth Arden as part of a goodie bag but this mention is entirely my decision, they had not asked for it etc.

The body cream in question is this giant tub right here

Elizabeth Arden's Green Tea Honey Drops Body Cream

I found this product intriguing because of the little yellow 'beads' that you can see in the pictures. Those aren't exfoliating beads and yes this is a body cream, not a scrub or anything! Those beads are actually the Honey Drops present in the product name.

These Honey Drop beads are made of real honey and are not abrasive at all. In fact they are the reason why I find it so 'fun' to use this body cream.

When scooping it out of the jar and first spreading it on your skin, you do feel the little beads, but upon slight pressure (such as rubbing the lotion into your skin), these beads burst and the honey gets absorbed by your skin. Does that not just sound so.... nourishing?

I find the scent of this lotion is really nice and soft, but it's definitely apparent. It does not smell exactly like canned or freshly brewed green tea, the only comparison I can make is if you know how the Elizabeth Arden Green Tea perfume smell like, it's that exact scent. It is a very fresh, alluring and light fragrance that does registers as some sort of Green Tea, just not something straight out of tea leaves. It is not overpowering and is actually difficult to describe. I would say it is a very unique and pleasant scent (see how bad I am at describing scents?)

How does it moisturize?
Well it is said to be 'super-moisturizing' and perfect for even conditioning dry, winter skin. Now I can't say so much about dry winter skin but I do find the moisturization level pretty decent for our climate. It does soften the skin and leave it very smooth, however I only use this during the day/night. I don't use it overnight when I sleep in air conditioning because I find that it does not hydrate enough for that. It could just be my skin that needs ample hydration due to eczema but this is a lotion you can slap on in the scorching afternoons in Singapore and not find that you have another layer of skin on.

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I do feel a little sorry for not having sourced out other information about it such as price and if it's still available etc, if anyone knows, feel free to comment below and I'll update this entry with that info!

Thank you for reading (:

Disclaimer:
Product mentioned was provided by Elizabeth Arden in a Goodie Bag - I am not affiliated to them.
All opinions expressed are my own. I am not getting paid for this.

At long last, here is my belated review of the Elizabeth Arden White Glove Extreme Skincare range. From what I know, this is available at all Elizabeth Arden counters in Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, India, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau). The main reason for this exclusivity is because White Glove Extreme (WGE) is specially formulated for Asian Skintypes.

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A while back, I was invited (along with several other beauty bloggers) to the EA White Glove Extreme Sampling event where we were educated about this product range and also received some samples to test this skincare out for a month.

I have explained about the whole whitening misconception in the White Glove Extreme Event blog entry but I will revisit that briefly for those who missed it. Whitening isn't about making your skintone lighter per se. Instead what it aims to do is to lighten any pigmentation or scarring you might have which in turn would make your overall complexion appear brighter, lighter and more even! So that's sort of an optical illusion right there!

They key ingredients in this skincare range would be Embilica C Complex and also a Marine Mineral Extract. It probably sounds all foreign, I know, so I'll insert a summarized blurb on what these ingredients are so you would understand what you would be putting on your face and how it helps.

Embilica C Complex - A mix of Embilica (an Indian Gooseberry) and Vitamin C - which is known to stimulate collagen synthesis which helps with achieving a vibrant complexion. This combo of Embilica and Vitamin C is said to control melanin production which will equate to a lightened complexion.

Marine Mineral Extract - Thie extract used is derived from a sea holly plant. What I read about this plant is that it is able to withstand severe surroundings such as sun exposure, dehydration, sea water etc. So maybe the plant's resistance was what got researchers interested. After testing it, they managed to harness the defense mechanism from the plant and embed it into this skincare range!

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I'll first be sharing my overall thoughts and findings on the skincare range before breaking it down product by product.

General Skincare Range thoughts
I did not notice any lightening of the pigmentation or acne scars that I had. My skintone seemed to look the same as it was, not optical-illusionary-rily fairer. The good thing would be this routine did not break me out, and I liked the scent of the products; the scent is a mild clean scent, no floral or anything, very skincare-ish. I wouldn't say that you need to dive into acquiring the entire range. Probably start out with a few key products you are interested in and see how that works out.

One thing I did notice with this routine is how it really did make my skin appear more translucent and glowy. I'm not kidding at all with this! It's not a crazy dewy effect (think MUFE HD Foundation) but it actually makes my skin look healthy. My skin has dulled from the lack of sleep and just not ideal lifestyle, so to achieve that nice glow again was amazing. Though I think this glow was primarily from one of the items used in this routine, which I will elaborate on.

Elizabeth Arden had included a recommended Day/Night routine in the handout we received
- click image to enlarge -

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Since we were handed (almost) the entire range to try out, it is really difficult to pinpoint exactly what each product had done. Thus I'll include little review of the product's texture and such for those that I truly have not much to comment about.

Clarifying Foam Cleanser
This has a soft and foamy texture. It is a very 'airy' foam, not thick and mousse-like. Thus that can make it feel rather mild on the skin which is good for those with sensitive skin but others who love a deep clean might find this lacking. What I love is that it does not leave a film on my face and does not dry my skin out after washing.

Gentle Brightening Lotion
This is basically the 'toner' step in the routine. This toner is alcohol free, which is good since most toners these days come with alcohol and that is not the best for the skin. Again, suitable for sensitive skin, but otherwise it's really just a toner. Nothing much to comment about this.

Skin Brightening Day Essence
This was an extra step I'm not used to. This Essence is meant to be used with the Day routine and applied just before the moisturizer. I found that this Essence alone was quite moisturizing. I liked that it smoothed out to a nice finish. Does not feel tacky on even though it seems to be a gel formula and just enough moisture. Dry skin users might want to top this off with moisturizer as recommended but I felt this alone seemed moisturizing enough for me during the day.

Brightening Pore Gel
This is classified as the 'Day Cream' in the skin care routine for those who like using light-weight gel formulas. I personally don't like how most gel-lotion feel on the skin, and this is no exception. It does smooth out to a slightly tacky-gel finish, if you have used gel lotions, you might understand what I mean. It is light-weight thus it is best to use during the day, if you don't mind that slight tacky-ness. This is also great for refining and minimizing pores. I did notice a very slight difference but since pores are not my main skin concern, the results might be best tested on someone else who may have more pore issues.

I did not like how this felt on so I cancelled it out of my Day skincare routine, I solely use this just before I apply my makeup because that way you can't feel the tackiness since makeup is going on after.

Daily Moisture Brightening Cream
This is the cream day/night moisturizer, provided as an alternative to the Brightening Pore Gel and I personally prefer using this. I find it is of a medium texture/thickness, you can definitely use it at night even if you sleep in AC, but you can use it in the day as well (minus blistering hot days). It moisturizes well and does not feel heavy or greasy on.

Brightening UV Protector SPF 50 PA+++
I am not a fan of using sunscreen because most I've tried feel tacky, heavy and greasy on. Granted this particular one wasn't as thick and heavy as others I have tried and is considerably easy to blend out, I still don't like it. It still feels slightly greasy and a little tacky on - definitely not as heavy. There doesn't seem to be a very noticeable sunscreen scent, it smells like everything else in this skincare range so that's good. If you love sunscreen already this would be a good one to look into. If you don't like sunscreen for the same reasons as me, then pass on this.

Brightening Eye Moisture Cream
I have used a couple eyecreams to date, in fact I love using eyecreams and this one in particular has definitely caught my attention. I love the texture of it, it feels like a cream which makes it easy to blend but it isn't thick or greasy as some cream ones out there. It is easily absorbed and definitely easy to pat out. The best part is I have seen slight results with this, it seemed to have lightened my dark circles ever so slightly. I'm not talking miracle lightening, but very slightly and that - I find - is pretty amazing since nothing else ever seems to work.

Skin Brightening Overnight Capsules

I have saved the best for last, this is probably my favorite product from the entire routine. Might ramble on about it, be warned.
This night essence is packed with Vitamin C which is a great product that works at brightening the skin. Therefore this is THE product that I mentioned that helped the most with brightening the skin's outlook. I find that if I use this at night, the next morning my skin looks refreshed and translucent. Of course the first few times it wasn't obvious but subsequently with regular usage it really showed up. I personally don't find this too thick and I could use this everyday, but since this is concentrated Vitamin C, some people might not be able to handle it. I use this at most 3 times a week - solely because I don't want run out of it so fast. I also find this does provide moisture too. I can use it at night (alone as a night cream) and in the morning my skin would not feel oily at all. It usually does either because of the moisturizer being thick or not being thick enough and the AC drying my skin out, but using this I almost feel like I don't have to wash my face in the morning because it's not even oily. I find that the texture of this is like a more runny version of Monistat Chafing-Relief Powder Gel, it spreads out to a very smooth finish. Maybe a little oily at the start but it gets absorbed really fast. The fact that it comes in little capsules also make it travel-friendly.

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Pardon the super duper long entry and ramble on the products. Just wanted to be as thorough as I can about what I felt about them. If you read through it all, power to you! If you were lazy and skipped down, it's okay because I'll highlight the three main products that I love from this skincare routine and would recommend.

The three products (from this routine) that I love and would recommend:

• Daily Moisture Brightening Cream
• Brightening Eye Moisture Cream
• Skin Brightening Overnight Capsules

Here are the prices for the full-sized EA products featured. Do note that most of the photographed products are sample sizes (except the Brightening Pore Gel and Overnight Capsules).

Thank you so much for reading!

Disclaimer:
I had been provided this skincare routine by Elizabeth Arden for reviewing purposes.
I am not affiliated to EA, all opinions expressed are my own. I am not getting paid for this.

A pretty massive post here. Well not quite but I just have a couple things I want to address/go through. It sounds all formal but really it isn't.

So the holidays are over and school had just started for me which is ridiculous. It felt like my holidays had just started and now it's over, but doesn't that always happen. Here's a quick EOTD I did for school today using the Elizabeth Arden Palette I had received from my goodie bag (you can read about here).

To jog your memory, it's this palette:

And here are the colors:

I used all the eyeshadow shades but Lagoon, so yes it's yet another neutral eye.
Can't help it, I love my browns (:

Just eyeshots today, it was a wee bit early for full face shots and I didn't have much time to snap photos. Though I know I had on Sunlight Rays as a cheek highlight. I didn't use the blush from here.

Product Used:
EYES
- Urban Decay Primer Potion
- Elizabeth Arden Sunlit Bronze Beauty Kit (eyeshadows minus Lagoon)
- MAC Powerpoint Liner in Engraved
- Majolica Majorca Lash Enamel Glamour Neo

I find that the eyeshadows blended really well into each other to form a smooth gradient of color. It's probably odd describing it that way but you know how some shadows take a bit of work to blend seamlessly into each other, I didn't have that problem with this. The colors weren't the most pigmented, but were surely buildable and had a nice wearable intensity to it. Definitely a product I'll reach for when doing makeup for school days!

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Also, a really quick update: As you know, school's back and as I had mentioned probably a billion times, this is my last school term (ever in my entire life, I hope) so I will be extremely caught up with finishing my final projects and assignments. Since this is my final term, I feel I should commit more time and energy and give it my all, so I might not have enough time on my hands to update my youtube and blog regularly.

With that said, my youtube and blog would be on a semi-MIA status in terms of updates. I might still post every now and then because I can't completely cut blogging and youtube-ing out, but I'll update sporadically. I'll still lurk around and read your blogs, but just not be able to update mine as much. I'm truly sorry for pulling this MIA-ish stunt, but it's a little phase I have to go through. I hope you guys can understand and thank you for all the support thus far! (:

It's not a very longe change though, I'll (hopefully!) graduate end-June so I'll be back in full force in July (:

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Last but not least a quick little skincare haul from Watsons today.

I picked up the Acne medication that Mya (heavenlygorgeous) had recently reviewed.

I have been breaking out and I predict that I will continue to with the lack of sleep so I hope this can work it's magic on me. Plus it's only S$3.95, can't go wrong with that. The active ingredient is Sulphur, which is a rather known acne medication, one of the stronger ones too so there's only 4% of that in here. I made sure to check in case it's the deadly Benzoyl Peroxide (which I am allergic to).

So that is all! I know for sure I'll have an entry coming up either this Friday or this weekend, but that aside I'm not sure of my blogging schedules.
Hope that phase is alright with you guys, and thank you so much reading!

Disclaimer:
The Elizabeth Arden palette was given to me as part of a goodie bag.
The product mention was voluntary and all opinions expressed are my own. I am not getting paid for this.

Eep, it's out!

I'll admit that I had been stalking magazine stands and all for the past week, after word got out that the April issue will be released in the last week of March. I think it is all fate that today was the day I submitted all my assignments, and the day I spotted this on magazine racks. I could just be reading too much into it.

Here's my little feature page, which talks about the Elizabeth Arden Mineral Foundation coupled with photos of the step-by-step methods of using it.

I am still trying to get used to looking at myself with all my hair pulled back. I like the shots and all but I personally find it looks... very different. Though people I know say I look more mature with my hair this way (though what's that supposed to mean! pfft..).

I don't know but I'm still sticking with my bangs for a little while more :D

For those who haven't seen the Behind the Scenes footage of this photoshoot, click here to see it!

I have already mentioned this before I want to thank Elizabeth Arden for this opportunity and also Pearlin for nominating me. I hope I was up to expectations *fingers-crossed* though I seriously seriously know I am not photogenic (chubby cheeks, grr) so I hope it all worked out.

And of course this might be cheesy again but I do want to thank everyone who reads my blog or watches my videos! I know I don't say thank you enough because I am someone who is not very good with words when it comes to saying 'thank you', 'sorry' or anything like that. I often get all unoriginal and can't express how much thanks I feel aside from simply saying Thank You. But do know that everyone matters and I am grateful for everything that I have experienced because of the help, support and of course feedback and interaction with you guys!

Now I feel like I'm writing a speech and I'm no good at cheesy stuff, so I'll stop right here.

I'll wind up this entry with a kick-ass shoe I found while browsing through the magazine.

Is that not just ~wow. I rarely even wear heels but that I would love to own. Not to walk in, but to display! Lol.

So that's it, thank you all again for reading and of course for everything!