Product Review: Althea Bare Essentials

     Yes, you've read that right! Our favorite one-stop all K-beauty shop now has a skincare line. The Althea Bare Essentials skincare line was launched last April and many beauty enthusiasts gave their thumbs up in this simplified Korean skincare regimen.

     Are you a fan of the 8 or 10 step Korean skincare? I know it's very tasking and expensive to complete the products especially if you have a tight budget but Althea made this tedious skincare process easy by bringing Bare Essentials - your skin’s simply perfect savior. Althea strips down to the bare essentials with this new skincare line. Riding on today’s current minimalism movement, Althea’s Bare Essentials focuses on skincare fundamentals and drops all the non-essentials. 

Product Review: Althea Bare Essentials

Unboxing, First Impressions, Review: ASUS ZenFone 5Q ZC600KL

     Hi dearies! ASUS Philippines successfully launched a series of genius smartphones that captivated the hearts of mobile photography fans. The brand's DNA to champion goes up a notch with its must-experience Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and features in its 5th and latest generation of ZenFones.

     If you've seen my Instagram post, I revealed all the ZenFones that I currently have. From ZenFone 2 Laser 5.2, ZenFone 2 Laser 5.5, ZenFone 3, ZenFone Live, and up to the latest ZenFone 5Q which I'll be unboxing and reviewing below :) I'm a certified ASUS user and to have given another chance to review the latest unit is an honor. During the epic launch of the ASUS ZenFone 5 series, we all went #Backto5- the comeback and going back to what they are loved for, bang for the buck smartphone and photography. So without further ado, here's the unboxing, first impressions, and review of ASUS ZenFone 5Q.

Unboxing, First Impressions, Review: ASUS ZenFone 5Q ZC600KL

My Shopee Summer Must-Haves

     There's one thing that Filipinos love to do during free time or the wee hours of the night- online shopping!!! I presume that some of you may have already shopped online and it's an accomplishment if you have successfully purchased an item you've been longing for. Since it's summer, I have a list of must-haves that I want to buy online as online shopping is the most convenient way to shop at the comfort of your home.

     The blazing summer heat kept me under house arrest for days now. I need to replenish my summer essentials and I'm so happy that Shopee Philippines is here to save me from traffic and sunburn. For those who still don't know Shopee, read the post below and discover some of the summer must-haves that I highly recommend :)

My Shopee Summer Must-Haves

Feature: Olay Sun-Proof Ageless Summer Packs

     Did you know that even indoors you need to slather your favorite sunblock in order to protect you from UV rays? Yes, I know staying indoors is the easiest way to veer away from the scorching summer heat outside.

     Some of you may choose to stay at home or inside the office because of the airconditioned comfort but contrary to popular thinking, even the indoors do not provide enough protection from the damaging rays of the sun. In fact, studies show that staying by a window indoors all day long without sunscreen is equivalent to the sun damage experienced from taking a 15-minute walk out during lunchtime. Yikes!

Logic.Ink Temporary Wearable Patch
L- Gently Remove the white cover R- Press firmly on any bare, sun-exposed skin
More of these @dearkittykittiekath's IG and IG stories

Feature: Real California Milk + Milky Sopas Recipe

     When was the last time you enjoyed drinking a glass of milk? Last night, early this morning, or you can't totally remember at all? Even if you're not a milk drinker, I presume that you get your dose of dairy from other products like cheese, yoghurt, and everybody's favorite- ice cream. Yum!!!

     Did you know that dairy is an important part of a healthy diet? Yes, go and get your child's science book and turn to the page of food groups. You'll see that dairy products are on the third layer and an individual must consume at least 3 servings a day because dairy is your great source of protein plus essential nutrients. Dairy is loaded with nutrients and has a delicious taste that the whole family will surely love. Sharing below some of the nutritious benefits of dairy and my milky sopas recipe after the jump!

Feature: Real California Milk + Milky Sopas Recipe
Real California Milk Dairy Products- California cheeses, California Sunshine Homogenized Milk, and Coolhaus Ice Cream

Feature: Biore UV Body Care Serum Anti Pollution

     Can you feel that it's so hot these past few days? Summer is really here! But before you enjoy the warmth of the summer sun please be reminded that UV rays are damaging. Check your summer skincare essentials first before basking under the sun.

     Sunscreens are no longer just for those lazy days on the beach. Skin experts have established that a UV skin protector should be part of every Filipina’s daily skin regimen to protect the skin against the harmful rays of the sun. Aside from these, aging and pollution are the skin concerns that should be addressed daily. DON'T SKIP SUNBLOCK AND SUNSCREEN!!! Skipping increases the susceptibility to premature aging and skin cancer. But wait, there's a preventive measure, keep reading below :)

Feature: Biore UV Body Care Serum Anti Pollution
With my fave face sunblock, Biore UV Face Milk :)

ASUS ZenFone 5 Series Launch

     Wait, what? ASUS recently launched a series of smartphones that are genius?! Yes, you've read that right!!! The brand’s DNA to champion mobile photography goes up a notch with its must-experience Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and features in its 5th and latest generation of ZenFones

     I was there! The epic launch of the ASUS ZenFone 5 series in the country was a success with thousands of Zenfans all over the Philippines who went #Backto5 inside the newly-opened One Esplanade in Pasay City last April 14, 2018. Are you excited to see the smartphones that will change the way you think about phone photography? Read more below!

ASUS ZenFone 5 Series Launch

Feature: AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

     Roses are red, violets are blue. There's a pink Avon lipstick for me and you! Yes, there's a pink lipstick for every Filipina and that's what Avon is proud of. From the pink lippies that Avon sent last year, pure pink is one my favorites. A flattering pink shade for fair skin tone. 

     This year, the is giving you more reasons to love pinks with the launched of Avon 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection. The selection is composed of twenty shades, ten from Perfectly Matte and ten from the True Ultra Color collections. Avon Philippines sent ten shades from both collections housed in this pretty lipstick holder. To know more about the pinks for every Pinay, scroll down below :)

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

     This year, it’s all about pink. Conquer life’s pursuits with Avon’s 2018 pink lipstick selection. As the no. 1 makeup brand in the Philippines, Avon’s support for all Filipinas goes beyond skin deep. For every moment in a Filipina’s life, there’s a shade and finish that will help you conquer it. From soft blushes to energetic pinks, Avon offers more than just lipstick shades. They offer swipes of confidence, happiness, and of course, beauty. 

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection
Angel and Marian for Avon Lipstick

     I already shared my thought on Avon True Color Perfectly Matte Lipstick in my past review post. This time, let's focus more on the all-new Avon Truc Ultra Color Lipstick Collection. I've tried five out of ten shades and below are my initial thoughts.

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection
L-R: Discovery Pink, Sunny Pink, Pink Dream, Fuchsia Fever, and Hot Pink

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

Avon True Ultra Color

• Has SPF 15 and Color Reveal Technology. 
• This line guarantees that the color you see on the stick is the color you’ll see on your lips.
• Glides smoothly on the lips during application.
• There's different kind of shimmer for each shade that can go from sutble to iridescent.
• Avon True Ultra Color retails for P379.

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

Avon True Ultra Color in Discovery Pink is a peachy-pink shade perfect for low-key days when you just want a subtle pop of color. 

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

Avon True Ultra Color in Sunny Pink a coral pink shade that has a satin finish.

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

Avon True Ultra Color in Pink Dream is a more daytime-appropriate shade with a lighter pink tone and a subtler shimmer. 

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

Avon True Ultra Color in Fuchsia Fever is a bright playful shade with deep berry tones and tons of iridescent shimmer. 

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

Avon True Ultra Color in Hot Pink 

AVON 2018 Pink Lipstick Selection

     Pink is for every Pinay, and Avon has covered all bases, all occasions, and all of life’s milestones. No matter what you’re about to face in life, Avon will be there by your side. 

 The Avon True Ultra Color Collection is available through any Avon Representative 

Visit their website AvonShop.ph

Good Times!~

Feature: Bambini Baby Cologne

     Hello mommies! Have you heard of Bambini or Bambini Baby Cologne? If I'm not mistaken, this brand of baby cologne has been on the market since 2009. I've seen the commercial of teens spraying Bambini while dancing. During that time, the cologne was manufactured by another company.

     Fast forward today, Bambini Baby Cologne is one of the brands under Cosmetique Asia Corporation. Bambini is relaunched as its first endeavor in the baby category. Bambini Baby Cologne is introduced in 2016 and now making a nice come after making Iya Villania and baby Primo as their brand ambassadors. Let me introduce the Bambino Baby Cologne scents and share our favorites after the jump!

Bambini Baby Cologne

Fresh New Look of C2 Green Tea

     Have you seen my latest Instagram post featuring C2 Cool and Clean green tea? Noticed anything? If yes, high five! The first local green tea flavored drink brand that I love drinking and got addicted to way, way back has a new look.

     Universal Robina Corporation (URC) brings a new and exciting look to your favorite C2 Cool and Clean. URC is a game-changer in the local beverage industry. In 2004, it stirred the market with the introduction of the first ready-to-drink tea in the Philippines, C2 Cool and Clean. Since then, Filipinos have developed an affinity with tea drinks and have grown to love C2’s refreshing flavors.

Fresh New Look of C2 Green Tea

Feature: Auto-Gard Car Care

     Car owners, unite! Make heads turn with Auto-Gard car care products :) If you're a car owner, prolly you know car maintenance is not a walk in the park. You need to invest in car care products to prolong the wear and tear of everyday use.

     Make a lasting impression with your car without spending the big bucks! Your car is like your home. Whether it’s brand new or older, you’ll always want to make sure it’s well taken care of: working, looking, and smelling at its very best! Take a ride into the bustling Metro Manila streets and beyond with your great-looking car cleaned, protected, and brilliantly finished with Auto-Gard premium car care products. More information about these products below :)

Feature: Auto-Gard Car Care

Feature: Kiss Instawave Curler and Wet Brush

     I was born with straight hair and I thank my genes for that because I don't need to have it rebonded. Some girls said that I'm lucky because of my typically long and straight locks. But there were times that I find it boring especially when I'll be attending an event and sporting gorgeous curls will complete the outfit.

     To shake things up a little, I always color my hair. It's already a monthly or quarterly routine. But there were times that I really wanted to style my hair with a curl or perm and the solution is to go to a reputable salon to achieve it. A trip to a salon will always cost time and money-- but what if I could only spend once and take care of my curling problems on my own? I already have an answer, scroll down below to know!

Feature: Kiss Instawave Curler and Wet Brush 

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

     Hello dearies! I'm back with another feature and review. If you're a long-time reader of this blog, prolly you know that I'm a makeup junkie- a fan of lipsticks, eyeliners, and bb cushions. If there are new products on the market to try, my lipstick loving heart is always ready to do a swatch.

     Earlier this week, I received makeup goodies from Fashion 21 and my heart skipped a beat when I saw lipsticks inside. It's the newest line from Fashion 21- Permanent Matte Lipstick! They also sent their Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract that comes in 3 shades. To know more about Fashion 21 and these products, read more below :)

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

Fashion 21

     Fashion 21 was born from the idea of a fresh look for the woman of the 21st century. It was to offer to Filipinas a new brand of imported, good quality and long-lasting makeup at an affordable price. It was dubbed as a brand that showcases world-class products that would fit the woman of the next decade.

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract
photo from Fashion 21 Facebook Page

Fashion 21 Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract P135

     This light, super-smooth pressed powder is the perfect thing to complete your look; its semi-matte finish and translucence make your face look fresh with a natural, healthy glow.

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract
Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract 

     The cucumber extract also hydrates your skin and keeps dryness at bay. This powder comes in three different shades, so no matter what your skin tone is, you can benefit from its amazing effects

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract
Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract comes in three shades. L-R: 1, 2, and 3

Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick P199

     New matte lipstick that gives you a long-wearing and color-rich finish. The intense Matte Permanent Lipstick comes with 10 wearable shades, perfect for all your occasions from day to night! Out of the 10 shades,  I'll be sharing my thoughts on the 5 shades that I have on hand like Melon Coral, Beet Rose, Wild Berry Jam, Apple Pie and Maroon Cherry.

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

     Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick looks like a jumbo crayon. The lipstick is housed inside a twistable tube. No need to sharpen before application because all you have to do it twist it up.

Feature: Fashion 21 Permanent Matte Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

size: 3 g

price: 199 php (Around $3.80+)

place bought: Watsons SM Fairview

Available in Shopee, Tackthis, and in all leading malls and beauty stores nationwide

or visit this link https://www.fashion21cosmetics.com/storelocator/

instruction for use: Pucker up those lips with a swipe or two

ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane and Ethylene/ Propylene Copolymer, Calcium Carbonate, Isobutylmethacrylate/ Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Acrylate Copolymer, Paraffin, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Silica, Polyisobutene, Paraffin/Synthetic Wax/ Glycol Montanate, Ozokerite, Beeswax, Polyethylene, Phenoxyethanol.

May Contain: Cl 15850, Cl 45410, Cl16035, Cl 19140, Cl 77491/77499, Cl 77492, Cl 77491, Cl 42090

     

     Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick has a velvety texture. It glides smoothly on my lips upon application. It is very pigmented and goes opaque on my lips after two swipes. I like that it's crayon-type because it makes application of lipstick on the outer corner of my lips easy.

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

     The shades are wearable for Filipina skin tone. It's long wearing and leaves a beautiful stain after eating oily food. Even though it's dubbed as matte permanent lipstick, it's easy to remove using a lip makeup remover. 

Feature: Fashion 21 Permanent Matte Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

     I love these shades from Fashion 21. They are perfect for day to night wear. This is one of the most affordable crayon-type lipstick on the market today, great for budget-conscious individuals and students. See the swatches below and let me know in the comment section which shade or shades you like :)

Fashion 21 Permanent Matte Lipstick

Melon Coral- coral and pink shade

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

Beet Rose- muted rose pink

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

Maroon Cherry- wine shade

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

Wild Berry Jam- dark red shade

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

Apple Pie- nude brown shade

Feature: Fashion 21 Matte Permanent Lipstick and Pressed Powder with Cucumber Extract

For more information about Fashion 21

visit their website:

Like them on Facebook: Fashion 21 Cosmetics

Follow them on Twitter: @fashion21_c

Follow them on Instagram: @fashion21_cosmetics

#Fashion21 #WearItFeelItLoveIt

Good Times!~

Product Review: Haenim UV Sterilizer

     The advancement of technology is inevitable. From simple things to the complicated and unexplainable ones, the truth is everything is possible. When we speak of technology, the first thing that comes to mind is gadget followed by appliances and devices that are brought about by the innovation of science and technology. We are lucky because these things make life easy. 

     From the gadget that we use to communicate, the appliances that we use to help us get through the day and the devices that make our work simpler. Living in the present world has its perks and for a 24/7 mom like me, nothing beats the help of modern technology. Think of microwave oven, vacuum cleaner, air conditioner and automatic washer, these appliances make life a breeze. Speaking of appliances, have you heard of UV sterilizer? If not, I'll introduce you to one of the most technologically advanced appliances that I have at home- HAENIM UV STERILIZER!

Product Review: Haenim UV Sterilizer

Product Review: AVON True Color Perfectly Matte Lipstick Line

     Avon will always hold a special place in my heart because it's the first beauty brand that was introduced to me by my mom when I was in high school. My first lip product from Avon was their strawberry lip balm. I presume that 90's kids will agree with me that it's addicting because of the flavor and the scent.

     Fast forward today, Avon is known for all thing beauty especially for their makeup line that caters to all Filipina. Last year, Avon Philippines sent the 20 gorgeous shades of their Avon True Color Perfectly Matte Lipstick line. I will just make this introduction short. Photos, swatches, and my thoughts below :)

Product Review: AVON True Color Perfectly Matte Lipstick Line

Feature: blk Cosmetics

     Prolly you've seen all the beauty and lifestyle bloggers muse their experiences on blk Cosmetics. The brand is owned by the one and only Anne Curtis. Her mission is to launch a makeup line that's all about uncomplicated beauty. Simply put, she wanted a makeup line that's simple, easy to apply, has superb quality but easy on the budget.

     Anne knows how important it is to have a beauty routine that works and won’t take much time. This meant paring down all the possible makeup options to come up with a carefully curated line that carries only the absolute essentials. Know more about blk Cosmetics and why for Ann "less is more, and that beauty should be made easy.”

Feature: blk Cosmetics

SM Supermalls Magical Christmas 2017

     Only four days to go and it's Christmas. I'm sure that everyone is having a blast. From family gatherings, reunions, and parties, nothing can stop us from celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. While others are busy with merrymaking in their homes, other families prefer spending the season inside shopping malls because of the beautiful holiday centerpieces.

     SM Supermalls, the Christmas destination for all Filipinos, has put together the biggest and grandest magical Christmas celebration for the entire family to enjoy. Dubbed as Magical Christmas at SM, families are in for an exciting treat where they can bond and have their photos taken in differently themed centerpieces for the kids and kids at heart. We visited three SM Supermalls with amazing holiday displays last week. Check them out after the jump!

SM Supermalls Magical Christmas 2017
photo from Rochelle Rivera

Feature: Big Guys! Pizza

     I have a big family that's why when we have celebrations or gatherings at home, preparing home cooked meals are not easy. Imagine cooking for more than 10 persons who also have big appetites. It's stressful and a mess and we learned a lot from that old way of preparing meals so instead of cooking, we resort to ready-made and cooked viands.

     We have default favorites like spaghetti, fried chicken, barbeque, and pizza. Speaking of pizza, we always order three or more boxes every occasion but there were times that we ran out of budget because we allocated all for the pizza not until we discovered something BIG! Meet, Big Guys! Pizza.

Big Guys! Pizza 

Feature: Porky Pit Lechon Belly

     'Tis the season to eat Lechon but not the usual or ordinary Lechon because there's a new player in town- Porky Pit. Noche Buena and Media Noche tables will not be complete without a roasted pork or the famous Lechon so this time let Porky Pit take your holidays to a different level. 

     I presume that you'll ask where to buy the best Lechon in Luzon specially the ones sold in Cebu because of the special taste. Cebuchon has been the talk of the town when it comes to Lechon and yes, the authentic is sold in Cebu but Porky Pit brought the same taste here in Metro Manila. Know more about Porky Pit and the Lechon variants they are offering after the jump.

Feature: Porky Pit Lechon Belly

Feature: Ju.D's Fruitcake

     You know that Christmas is just around the corner if you see well-loved desserts are on display on store shelves or in reunions and gatherings. Fiesta ham, queso de bola, 'bibingka and puto bumbong' are a few but the stars of this season.

     For the so-called "Titos and Titas of Manila", there's a holiday dessert that screams Christmas- fruitcake! Fruitcake is a cake that is made from dried fruits and nuts and spirits. It's a classic and well-loved cake by many and there's one name that you can trust when it comes to authentic fruitcakes. Meet Ju.D's Fruitcake after the jump!

Feature: Ju.D's Fruitcake