Hey everyone! Aside from being a voucher addict I'm also a skin care advocate and makeup enthusiast which is why I'm always on the look out for beauty related products with good quality yet affordable prices. 

There are times when I splurge a little on some things worth spending my money on but I also look for cheaper alternatives. Good thing we now live in this era when there are more than a few choices of almost everything in the market. Take makeup tools for instance. My first makeup kit was bought online directly from an international brand which took forever to get here and caused a painful dent on my budget. Years later after trying out locally available makeup brushes like Charm and Ellana, I can proudly say that I now patronize local brushes. 

After taking basic makeup class at The Makeup Artistry, I realized I lack a few more brushes needed to achieve a full look. Luckily, I watched Miss Say's You Tube video featuring a locally available brush set from Enhance Cosmetics. They were having a sale with 10% off the regular price on every item from makeup tools to cosmetics so I finally got myself a 15-piece makeup brush set.

The brush set comes in this really cute pink foldable pouch made of synthetic snake skin with magnetic locks on both ends.

The pouch unfolds into a long brush holder with a flap made of the same synthetic material that covers and protects the brushes. It has a netlike fabric carefully sewn to fit each brush handle securely. The brushes aren't labelled and there's no product insert telling you the name of each tool and what they're for so I just assumed which is which based on size, shape and overall appearance.

Top to bottom:

Face Brush: a densely packed large brush perfect for finishing powder application.

Blush Brush: a smaller brush that you can use to apply your blush or contour your face with.

Angled Brush: it has the size of a blush brush but comes with angled bristles best for contouring or applying blush.

Foundation Brush: a flat brush best used in spreading your liquid foundation for an evenly flawless finish. 

Concealer brush: this has the shape of a foundation brush but is much smaller making it easier to apply concealer to under eye areas, around the nose and on blemishes.

Large Shader brush: smaller than a concealer brush best for applying and blending of powder eye shadow or emollient-based products.

Small Shader brush: smaller than a regular shader brush used for precision shading of eye shadow.

Flat Definer brush: has a sharp, thin edge used to apply eye shadow along the upper and lower lash lines to create an easy thin line.

Lid Shader brush: has long, firm bristles used for precise application of deep shades on the crease.

Lip brush: a flat tapered brush best used for applying emollient or water based lip products.

Mini Lid Shader brush: has a fine and oval tapered tip for controlled application of color on precise areas of the lids.

Flat Angled brush: has flat bristles with angled tip used to define the brows.

Sponge Tip Applicator: the flat side may be used for applying eye shadow while the tip is ideal for smudging eye liner or placing a highlight color on your lid.
Lash brush: is firm and has a spiral looking shape best for applying mascara, separating lashes and grooming eye brows.
Eye brow comb and brush: the comb works to smooth brows for a more polished look while the brush sets brow shape and softens hair texture.


Aside from the pink color, I love the snake skin material of the pouch and the way it discreetly folds into a wallet size making it a great travel companion. The bristles are so soft that I initially thought they were made of synthetic fibers but they're actually made of goat hair. Each brush is densely packed with minimal shedding. The metal ferrules look good in black while the pink wooden handles look very feminine and are light weight for easy brush manipulation.

 Overall, I honestly think that this set can pull off a complete look. Although it would've been greater with a flat top brush instead of the flat foundation brush and a tapered blending brush instead of a sponge tip applicator. Quality wise, don't expect the high end look of MAC or Sigma brushes. The bristles, ferrules and handles aren't flawless but for its price (950 Php) this set is really a good steal.

Enhance Cosmetics 15-Piece Makeup Brush Set

Retail Price: 950 Php

Facebook: facebook.com/enhancecosmetics

Instagram: enhance_cosmetics

Email: enhance_cosmetics@yahoo.com

Viber/text: 0917-5575312


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DEXFLEX: Claire Gold Ballet Flats

One afternoon, while I was in the bank waiting for my turn, a lady sitting across me was wearing a nice pair of gold ballet flats. My friends and I are shoe fanatics and we have a knack at knowing shoe brands just by seeing the design so imagine my frustration when I couldn't recognize hers. I spent my waiting time eyeing her shoes and trying to make out the brand. It looked like a Yosi Samra but after going through their collection, none of their designs match the shoes. Fast forward to a week later, I was window shopping in Robinson's Magnolia and saw the exact same pair of shoes in Payless Shoesource. 

Since two of my most abused pair of shoes gave in a week ago, I felt like I needed a new one for everyday use so I bought the pair of shoes made by Dexter called Claire. I've always been a size 9 but size 8 1/2 of this design seem to fit me better. 

What I love about the shoes is that it really feels so comfortable I can walk hours and not feel my feet hurt. It has a soft lining and the sole flexes in coordination with your feet. I also love that it's gold because it looks elegant but can be worn casually as well. I also like the way the glitters are isolated in front instead of all over the shoes. It has a reasonable price considering you're getting style plus comfort. Overall, this pair rocks and I will be watching out for other shoe designs from Dexter. 

How about you? Have you tried other brands from Payless Shoesource? How are they like? Share them with us on the comments section below. Thanks for reading and have a wonderful week!

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TOKYO LOVE SOAP: First Impression

Hey everyone! I finally gave in to this much talked about soap from Japan more popularly known as the Tokyo Love Soap or TLS. I had second thoughts on buying from online local sellers since I've been a victim of fraudulent ones in the past. I thought of buying directly from a Japan based legitimate supplier but the added expense of shipping as well as customs fee discouraged me to do so.

I became more confident in buying one online after reading a blog post at japanbeautyreview.com and finding out from the manufacturers of Tokyo Love Soap that there are currently no fake TLS. They said it will take millions of yen to reproduce such fake products and no company will take the risk of being shut down and litigated when caught. 

After days of tediously searching online for a seller, I finally got my TLS original a few days ago from tokyolovesoapmnl, a trusted seller in Instagram . One soap retails for 750 Php exclusive of 60 Php shipping fee so I shelled out a total of 810 Php just to try this wonder bar.

This is the Tokyo Love Soap original or regular which is the very first soap produced before the release of numerous variants like the TLS girls, premium, medicated and ultimate. Why did I choose the original TLS? Because aside from being the most affordable, it's the soap that started all the raves and paved the way to manufacturing other variants.

The label on the back says it's made in Japan but there are no English translations. You may visit tokyoloveshop.com for more details about Tokyo Love Soap and its variants.

The soap is sealed in a frosted plastic container.

I had a hard time taking clear pictures of the soap so please bear with the images shown. It's a round soap which is quite big and heavy at 100 g with the logo of Tokyo Love Soap carved on top. This bar is not scented and has a smooth exterior. It glides smoothly on your skin and easily forms a lather that feels quite velvety. It washes off easily leaving you with a squeaky clean almost dry feeling. 

BEFORE using Tokyo Love Soap

AFTER using Tokyo Love Soap (Day 1)

I've only used this twice and so far I didn't have any adverse skin reactions. I actually tried comparing my skin tone before and after first use as shown above but I couldn't get an accurate lighting. I did notice my skin tone brighten a little but I also felt my skin getting a bit dry so I moisturize with Aveeno lotion after every use. I will continue using this and give you an update soon. 

Have you tried any of the Tokyo Love Soaps? Do share your experience with us on the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and have a great day!

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TONY MOLY: Intense Care Snail Foam Cleanser

 

 Hey everyone! I've always been an avid user of products from Tony Moly since the day they opened a flagship store in Manila. I've been a returning customer (SM North and SM Fairview) since last year because aside from selling high quality products from skin care to makeup, they also have sales representatives who assist you without annoyingly following you wherever you go.

 

 

A year ago, Tony Moly was on sale for more than a few times so my friends and I stocked up on our favorites. They had a buy 1 take 1 promo on selected Floria lines so I was able to try almost everything like the toner, emulsion, serum and night cream. Good thing about buying Tony Moly products in bulk is they generously give gifts with purchase. I've received sachets of cleanser, facial wash and BB cream but the most memorable and probably the best in my opinion is when they gave me a full size of the Premium Snail foam cleanser.

 

This cleanser comes in a 150 ml squeeze type tube with a flip top hence the product is easily dispensed. The label on the back of the tube is in Korean but the box has an English translation.

 

 

Glycerin is one of the main ingredients of this cleansing foam which is known for its moisturizing properties. It's a good cleanser that's mild enough to use everyday and is also suitable for those with sensitive skin.

 

 

 

It's opaque white and has the consistency of a thick cream. A small pea size is enough to cover your entire face. This cleanser lathers up quickly and feels really smooth and silky on your skin. I actually love its fresh citrus scent and how it makes my skin feel supple after each wash. I never had any adverse skin reactions to this cleanser and it didn't break me out. The price tag stings a bit and may not fit my tight budget, luckily I got another free tube from Tony Moly when I last restocked my Luminous Goddess Aura BB Cream.

 

 

Overall, I am obsessed with this cleansing foam that I plan on saving money when I'm done with my second tube. Hopefully Tony Moly will still give one away as gift with purchase so I won't have to shell out 848 Php. I highly recommend it to those who want to try a good foam cleanser suitable for all skin types that can keep your skin clean and moisturized at the same time.

 

 

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JULY BDJ BOX

Hey guys! It's been  more than a week since I got the July BDJ Box and I have to admit I'm still on cloud nine. I couldn't believe I'd be blessed with such generosity. I wasn't really expecting it to be delivered that day so when I saw my brother holding a huge package, I didn't have the slightest clue it was for me. 

  

Look at these treats, 2 boxes for the month of JULY alone! I was wondering if I got the extra treat as a prize for tediously answering the monthly BDJ Box surveys or for joining the 7 day challenge or just by being a loyal BDJ Box subscriber. What the heck, it really doesn't matter as long as we're all happy! 

 

I love this catchy BDJ phrase for this month: "What matters most is how you see yourself." 

I love how neatly and stylishly BDJ arranges the products in all their boxes. Presentation is really a big deal because it shows how much they care for their subscribers. BDJ never fails to impress me with well chosen products included in every box. I believe they take time to get to know their subscribers through their monthly surveys and give us what we want including the awesome products in this month's box. So without further introductions, I bring you the contents of my July BDJ Box.

Beach Hut Sunblock, 150 ml (399 Php) 

Last time I purchased a sunblock spray (of a different brand), it cost me a fortune. It reeked of chemical odor which is why I only used it once. I saw it again in my stash a month ago and it was already past its expiration date so I had to throw it away. Good thing BDJ included this Beach Hut sunblock spray, now I don't have to purchase one. I haven't used it though, so I can't tell yet if it's any good (I truthfully hope it is!).

Enchanted Pixie Dust Shimmer Eye Palette in Nude Eyes, 6 g (179 Php)

Yey! Another palette to add to my slowly growing collection of cosmetics. I really don't have much since I'm more of a skin care product hoarder which is why I welcome eye palettes given to me with arms wide open. This one in particular is for creating nude eyes which I'm still trying to get the hang of so I'm definitely practicing with this palette soon.

Too Cool for School BB Foundation Lunch Box #1 Matte Skin, ~15 g (219 Php)

Now this sample is my ultimate favorite! I love trying different BB products since the hype started a couple of years ago. Tony Moly tops my list of BB products which is why I was super excited to try another Korean brand, Too Cool for School BB Foundation. Read my full review here.

 

Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Raspberry Pie (525 Php)

I have two of these in Red Velvet and Cherry Tart. I believe they are heaven's gift to women who aren't too comfortable wearing bold shades and young ladies who are still new to the makeup world. I love the sheer but pretty obvious hint of color it gives your lips. It glides on smoothly like butter and boosts your lips' moisture like no other. It also comes in playful shades to suit every occasion.

  Foot Appeal Peeling Socks (279 Php)

I've heard a lot of good things about peeling socks, that they are able to exfoliate dead skin effectively with no down time. I purchased 3 pairs from Watson's months ago but haven't used any. Getting another isn't actually too thrilling anymore but it's a welcome addition to my stash.

Sure Slim Gift Voucher (1,500 Php)

Now this looks promising. I looked up Sure Slim online and it reminds me so much of the Cohen Diet because each participant is required to undergo a blood test before a diet plan is prescribed. I'm not sure if this is as expensive but the voucher can come in handy. 

These items already made my day, imagine how ecstatic (yet speechless) I was upon seeing the contents of the other box. 

The box that launched a thousand smiles! 

Now these Dove products sky rocketed me to the moon! Imagine getting full size body and hair care products from Dove so you'd know why I feel so elated. Products included in this separate box are as follows:

 ♥ 2 bottles (180 ml) of Damage Therapy Intense Repair Shampoo (106 Php)

 ♥ 2 bottles (180 ml) of Damage Therapy Intense Repair Conditioner (108 Php)

 ♥ 1 tub (200 ml) of Damage Therapy Intense Repair Treatment Mask (235 Php)

 ♥ 1 piece  (135 g) of White Beauty Bar Moisturizing Milk (52.50 Php) 

 ♥ 1 bottle (40 ml) of Whitening Original Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Roll-on (83.50 Php) 

 ♥ 1 can (169 ml) of Whitening Original Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Aerosol (170 Php)

The Dove products alone cost almost a thousand pesos while the ones in the BDJ Box are valued cumulatively at more than 3,000 Php. So this means I got a total of 4,000 Php worth of products this July from BDJ. What an absolutely amazing deal! Needless to say that I love the July Box and as I said before, I highly recommend subscribing to them the soonest you can because boxes get sold out pretty fast. You may click here to start your subscription. As for me, I will continue mine and hopefully post my reviews on the products included each month. Any requests on which of these products you want me to review next? Let me know by posting on the comments section below. Thanks for reading and have an amazing week!

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