How to find the right foundation?

To be honest, there is really no absolute right or wrong in makeup.
As much as makeup aims to eccentuate your natural look, it is also an extension of your personality, and we got to admit there are people out there who express more with makeup, even going avant garde with their makeup... whether wearing foundation too dark, too orange, too white or too thick... I say if you're happy and comfortable... crack on... That being said, I was inspired to make this post after experiencing how difficult it is to find 'the' foundation.

There are a few factors you have to consider to get the right foundation... it is more about your taste and what you want to achieve than just skin type. Skin type does play a role but again it still depend on how you want to look. I am oily and was always told to stick to matte foundation...but I really like more satin finish with shimmery highlighter. And I believe there are dry skin out there who loves a matte finish. There is always trick for you to get away with foundations that supposedly not for you. Just keep on reading.

The 'Right' shade

This is the most crucial part, hence the longer paragraph *rants*.

While foundation shades range from light to dark, there are also variety undertones. When I started wearing makeup, wrong undertone was the biggest problem by making my face look gray.
Undertone in foundation generally divide into:-

Cool tone
Contain Pink, Peach or Red. Give that rosy tone. 

Warm tone
Contain Yellow or Orange. Give that golden tone. 

Neutral
Mix of both cool and warm.

If you're not sure what you are, try and look it up, there are tons of articles available about finding your undertone. I like this one.

I myself am warm but I do have that slight olive undertone which means the orange in warm tone foundation can look 'off' on me. Olive undertone has a slight green mix into yellow undertone...which can be a bit tricky. This undertone is common among South - South East Asian, Latinas and sometime mixed people.  While reading up on internet I kept seeing different articles that sort of have different ideas on olive undertone. I myself believe olive undertone needs a slight green in foundation. Usually olive are categorized as warm, but as you go darker you find darker warm tone foundation tend to look orange which can look a bit 'off' on olive tone. Yellow green undertone foundation actually look very 'dead' on the bottle but it blends naturally in olive tone skin.

Does season matters?

It is also helpful to consider how tan you are throughout the years. This is more common with those living in 4 seasons country where they would use lighter shade in winter and darker shade during summer. I personally don't do that even after studying in Belfast for years. Instead of buying darker foundation for summer, I would just adjust with bronzers. Though I admit I do have a few 'accidents' of buying foundation tad too dark.

Generally you want to be matched exactly to your skin, that is a no-brainer. That being said, you would want to take into account on your perspective and preference on how you want your complexion to look. For example, usually people from 'West' have more appreciation for that tan healthy look, so they may still be happy even if the foundation is very the slightly darker than their skin.
Whereas I'm being typical Malay would like to look the brightest I possibly can would go for slightly lighter foundation, and I don't think anything wrong with that. This is similar to other Southeast and Eastern Asians like the Thais or Koreans. I don't tolerate foundation that give the slightest 'tan tint' to my skin, even if they blend in. It might still look 'good' but it's just not my style.  Another reason is also because my hands looks lighter than my face.

Now if you look the Lancome's cushion in 04 it looks clearly too gray on my skin, there was not enough yellow it in addition that it is tad too light. While 05 is just too dark, surprisingly not as orange but still. So you see skin like me have this problem everyday...no in between shades. But thanks to brands like MAC, NARS, Makeup Forever even Kevyn Aucoin and more I still manage to find my shade.

NARS Barcelona has a good mix of yellow in it and look how nice blends into my skin. 

I include swatches of my best matched foundation, and these are all swatches heavily compare to the Barcelona. If you look at the MAC NC42 there is slight 'green' cast to it really brightens up my complexion instead of looking sallow and dead.

Swatches in flashlight, look how grey the foundation could be without enough yellow.

 Of course I'm sure it is different for everyone. I feel the need to mention this because of the vast contrast between the beauty market in west and east. Tanning products are never a staple in Malaysia as how brightening products are not in the UK.

If you skip finding out what you prefer you'll find yourself dissapointed with foundation you get matched to.
 
From past experiences, I try to avoid getting matched from the get-go because I felt it can be misleading, being someone with yellow green undertone and preferring a slightly brighter shade, it can be difficult to explain well to the sales assistant.

TIP:
I find it is helpful if you sort of have an idea what shade you might be and suggest that at the counter. I try to find mine by watching youtubers/bloggers of similar skintone and use foundation matrix at Temptalia.

There are still wonderful sale assistants that just listen to customers well and match foundation to perfection. *Thank you Chanel and Illamasqua counters at Belfast Debenhams!*

Be patient while explaining and take your time while trying out at the counter. Never rush to buy a foundation unless it's 2nd bottle/tube.

Last resort is to get samples, try at home for a few days, compare to other foundation you have at home. Although this may only be availabe for higher end brand.

The Right Coverage
Coverage refers to how pigmented the foundation is, range from light to full.
While this may have to do with how clear your skin is, it is again up to you. Some who have crystal clear skin may still prefer full coverage. Even for me, despite having acnes, I find myself satisfied with medium to almost full coverage.
Now having said that each type of coverage can have pro and cons. Since now we have wider range of coverage, I just be simple in explaining.

The Lighter coverage
This means more of your skin comes trough, makes it more natural like your own skin, but also mean less flawless, and blemish is reduced only by little.
The BAD: this also can mean skintone is not fully even, might even look blotchy.

The Fuller coverage
So this mean less of your skin comes through, makes it less natural but more flawless and even tone. Your blemish can literally vanished
The BAD: If not applied well can give mask-like effect.

Don't forget, foundation coverage can dictate how much concealer you need. The fuller the coverage the less concealer you need.

The Right Finish

Welcome to 2016 where foundation finish is as advanced as your smartphone. When I started wearing makeup it is just as simple as dewy finish, satin natural finish and matte finish.
Now we have the modern formula such as demi-matte, glow from within look and more. Confused? I'll tell you there is no simple way of explaining the finish of new foundations nowadays.

So for those who new to makeup, I will explain the classic finish of a foundation.

Dewy finish

Give the glow even a sheen to skin making it look lively, and even have fresh wet effect. Think Korean beauty ads. Usually associated with spring summer with lighter coverage, aim for those with near perfect skin.

The Bad: Those that contain shimmer which can make you look greasy and highlight pores.

https://66.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lue490onx31qd9chs.jpg

https://scbeautyhigh.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/dewy-skin-how-to.jpg?w=1159&h=1739

Matte finish
This finish get rid of shine on your complexion and give a powdery finish. Usually associated with autumn winter and fuller coverage, aimed for those with oily and acne-prone.
The Bad: It can give a flat, dry, cake-like effect, can catch on dry patches.

http://ris.fashion.telegraph.co.uk/RichImageService.svc/imagecontent/1/TMG9734471/m/16-Dec-intro-pic_2423260a.jpg

http://ris.fashion.telegraph.co.uk/RichImageService.svc/imagecontent/1/TMG10298369/m/MAIN-VICTORIA-BECK_2666592a.jpg

There is also the satin or natural finish which what most latest formula try to emulate. It is basically mix of both dewy and matte . Although it is always hard to find the right balance between dewy and matte. This really depends on each individual foundation.

Like I mention above, I would ignore the specified demographic for each finish, even if you dry, you can go matte and even if you oily you can go dewy. Nowadays with these modern formula it is easier and there are things you could do to avoid the BAD from each finish. For example moisturizing well before a matte foundation to avoid dry flatness and powdering a dewy foundation to reduce the shine and oiliness.

The Right Type

Nowadays you could get foundations in many forms; in liquids of all consistency, from thick creams, gel-cream, to watery liquid. Then you have the  powder; pressed or loose. Then you got the cushion compact which is technically a liquid although I admired the convenience. Too bad I haven't found one of my perfect shade... Lancome UK recently come up with "Teint Idole Ultra Cushion" which is the second cushion foundation launch. It probably the first of UK brands to come up with cushion closer to most Korean cushion, which is matte and full coverage... alas... they make a big jump between a medium shade to dark, which left no room for someone with medium dark skin like me. I'll just stick to liquid. (see the swatches above)

We can't really says which form or type is better, it really depends on the brand and the formulations. Some of us might be prioritizing the convenience, so they like powder foundation but some might hate dryness from powder. However, now we are in 2016, there are powder foundation compact with better formula which is not too drying and not too forget the vast cream compact and cushion compact alternatives. Just find one or a few if you like that fit your cup of tea.

The last thing i like to share with you all is never get sucked in by the hype etc... now that we live in the age where Instagrammers and bloggers are trusted more than advert, you have to remember that a lot of these internet personalities got affiliate links and got paid for hyping something. It's good to get to know the latest trend and product but chances are you might still prefer your old favourites.I do admit it is quite difficult if you're just getting into makeup but I believe everyone went through that trial error process and eventually figure how they like their foundation to be .

MAC Studio Sculpt, Nars All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation, Chanel Perfection Lumiere,
Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer

. Just finishing fast I am sharing my top favourite foundations. In terms of formulations, the first three are great and I can't say one is better than the others. But I must say MAC Studio Sculpt wins on other aspect, ease of application, tube packaging with extra 10ml (40ml tube) and works cheaper.

Studio Sculpt NC42 swatch

MAC studio sculpt in NC42 - the best match, and I use this as my reference when I am looking into other foundations.

Nars All Day Luminous Weightless in Barcelona

Nars all day luminous - either Barcelona or Syracuse + Stromboli (not shown in the picture)

Chanel Perfection Lumiere in 50 - slightly cooler, but still match fine, I tried 60 and 54 but it's darker and too orange for my liking.

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer SX11

I just starting to use the Kevyn Aucoin Skin Enhancer and I believe it is included in my top favourites and probably on par with MAC Studio Sculpt with how the shade SX11 match me.The only gripe with it is getting used to cream formulation.

I will do reviews on all these foundations, especially the MAC Studio Sculpt as I have been using it for years!

I hope this post helps and give some ideas especially for those just starting to get into makeup.

Review: CHANEL LIFT LUMIÈRE Firming And Smoothing Fluid Makeup

So needless to say I lost the battle to keep my blog alive during summer. Unfortunately again, I was down again with my exam result and had to go through all the process of remedial, resit and waiting for result and damn it was so stressful. However, so glad that I pass and too bad since I got the result there were only a few days before the start of class... can you believe it? '-.- So I pretty much spend my time try to get out from this 'surreal' feeling of getting a pass. You know if I truly look into myself I still feel like I'm waiting for my resit result.. but it's already a month. I guess I didn't really get an actual 'break' like going somewhere and I didn't even spend effort to actually celebrate it. I think a celebration dinner/lunch could have been great. oh well moving on to the review.

So I got this since Mat Lumiere was discontinued and I tried this Lift Lumiere on at the counter and I kind of got a free makeover there. Like seriously Chanel, you really know how to make your customer happy! I remember she remove all my makeup, put on moisturizer, put on primer, the foundation, concealer, powder, blusher and even lipstick... all Chanel. woww!! Bravo Chanel counter! I always take customer service into product price you see, the more expensive the product, the better the customer service should be. You guys got A++++ (and they are very consistent)

At first glance of its name, Lift Lumiere is definitely targeted toward more of mature skin. Words like 'lift' and 'firming' is more synonymous with more of mature skin product. The first description from Chanel is 

"Wrinkles and fine lines are smoothed, as if by magic. The face regains the appearance of young skin. Pores and imperfections seem to disappear and dark spots are lightened. The complexion glows with youthfulness.", 

so there you go. It claims to contain Liftoptic complex which direct light to give a flattering look on the complexion and a firming polymer that smooth the surface. Of course I have no idea how far these claims are true but this foundation performance are not to be underestimate. 

Its package is a standard foundation bottle, semi opaque so you can't see the shade through the bottle, might be for protection of the formula. The pump works well, with black cap that has a white engrossed double 'C' of Chanel logo. This is the kind of foundation bottle you show off on your vanity, hahaa!

Now on to the texture, it definitely more runnier than my other foundation, and have this 'thin, liquidy' consistency. It goes on light and smooth and there is no obvious shimmer or anything. The coverage is more of medium or light and you definitely need concealer for more of a flawless finish. Despite that I always think one pump is enough, and I have wide face. Given the consistency, it also doesn't feel heavy at all.

The only 'small issue' I have with this is just the shade. So 60 HÂLÉ is my best match and overall it does blend well, but it has this tad bit of peach undertone which I always think does not blend as flattering as a more yellow undertone would. This is still warm undertone but I wish has more of that 'yellow' to it. But again as I said this just a small issue and I am still happy with it.

See, it still blends well. So the finishing as you can see is nowhere near matte. It does give a bit of 'sheen' but not a disco ball effect. It's a nice 'dewy' finish, and could be like you second skin. It is best applied with hand, standard brush or stippling, and stick to synthetic brush. With the thin consistency, I think sponge, buffing brush like a flat kabuki and natural hair brush would soak this up, especially for those who like to pump foundation directly on your sponge or brush.

If you really optimize you skin smoothness, you know, with enough exfoliation, hydration and moisture, you can easily achieve that more 'flawless' 'no makeup' look with foundation. Just because it so light and the finish is very natural.

Price is at GBP 38.00 which is quite expensive for a bottle of foundation but this could be your choice if you want to treat yourself. As I said it seems to be target for mature women, but I think it still work great with younger skin, especially to get that second skin effect. It is a good base for a dewy finish. It could get a bit shiny for oilier skin but set it well with powder, it should be under control. So for those who want matte, I don't think you will be happy with this.
So overall 3.8/5 
This could have been better with wider shade range.

1st Impression - Chanel Perfection Lumiere Foundation, The Face Shop INTEVIA Active Original Emulsion & Toner, Tony Moly Dr. Tony Ac Control Emulsion & Toner

I should be revising like crazy for exams, but I just can't help it, knowing that I haven't post these past. These are last bits of the free samples I got from my Seoul trip as well another sample foundation from Chanel that kind of tingling my 'Chanel-addict sensation'.

Chanel Perfection Lumiere Foundation - in #64 Beige Ambre

I really wish Chanel didn't discontinued Mat Lumiere, I thought this might be same as that, but it's not actually. Perfection Lumiere is actually more matte flat compare to Mat Lumiere.
Nevertheless, I think this foundation is decent, the colour range is wide compare to their previous line. Although I was quite torned between #64 and #60. I tried the Mat Lumiere is #60 and I had Lift Lumiere in #60. Both are slightly too light for my complexion but not really a bit deal for me since I always like brighter foundation. There was nothing darker than that unlike Perfection Lumiere, there are more shades after #60.

Without Flash

Without Flash - after blend - the 'orangey' patch '-.-

With Flash

With Flash- after blend

Unfortunately, they ran out of #60 when I got there, so I can't really compare to the other #60 in different formula. So I tried #64, but it was a bit too orangey yellow to my liking. Yellow tone foundation at the right shade can give a brighthening effect on like MAC Studio Sculpt NC42 on me, but this is just mehhh! '-.-
If I wear this alone I look a bit orange *some might think that's ok, but not for me* and my complexion kind off dull and sallow. So I was quite annoy with the shades, how #60 can look a bit too light and #64 is a bit too dark/orangey. If they had something in between, that would be great.
Enough about the shades and now about the texture, it's light and quite runny. It sets into matte finish and they had claim that. Coverage is up to medium buildable  To be honest I can't really slap this on because of the 'orangey' effect it gives to my complexion.
In conclusion, since I am fan of Chanel, if I got the chance I'm going to visit the counter at Debenhams and trying it again and to get the a decent amount of sample *perhaps #60 and #64*, I only got 2 sachets from counter in Boots. *booo* . For those who like matte finish foundation and wants to go for a bit luxury, try this foundation but if you have quite dry and flaky skin, might opt for something else.

The Face Shop INTEVIA Active Original Emulsion & Toner

I got these free samples from Incheon Airport from my last trip and it also include their cream and comment on it here.

I enjoyed the richness of their cream and the same goes their toner and emulsion.
The toner is a milky fluid and thicker than the usual clear watery toner. As I would have expected the toner is very rich on the skin, smell nice and it does not have those 'milk' smell that is the usual for product like these. The emulsion is a light cream and my face feel very moisturized after I put on both of toner followed by this emulsion. I used these at night usually, together with the cream and continue on even when the cream is finished. As far as I notice these has not flared out my skin or cause a breakout. It feels just nice especially in the colder weather. Overall I think the INTEVIA range from The Face Shop is really good, the idea of stem cells is amazing and the products itself will very much attract those late 20's and early 30's group. Those with dehydrated skin will benefit a lot from this.

Tony Moly Dr. Tony Ac Control Emulsion & Toner
I just got to say Tony Moly really did well for this Ac Control range. It's very unexpected since typical affordable skincare would choose 'drying' 'matting' and oil-busting as the objective for their acne-control range.

It really get on my good side that this has non of those tea trea oil or those sulphuric sh*ts in it. Both the toner and the emulsion has a clean fresh smell and there's no medicated smell as well.
When I look it on the internet, apparently this range is botanical base and does not contain the typical acne-fighting ingredient, or even if they got it, it's not the active or main ingredient. They contain the Sciadopitys Verticillata Root extract or the Japanese Umbrella-pine which I don't know much about. It claims to soothes skin problems and tighten the pores. More on Japanese Umbrella-pine, it is said to be antimicrobial as well, so that makes sense for it to be in acne-fighting skincare.
The toner is a typical clear water-like liquid and the emulsion is just a white light cream. I used both of these in the days where some spots coming out and it does wonder. It work well with my Benzoyl Peroxide gel and it doesn't cause any drying or flakiness on face as I would expect from an acne-fighting skincare. This feature alone is very attractive to me. Those with dry but acne-prone skin would really like this. I believe my spots come down faster with these in combination of my Benzoyl Peroxide gel. If these are easily obtained I wouldn't mind having it for those very bad skin days. *I wish I got a larger sample*

Hand Luggage: Beauty stuffs

So I finally back at home, my mind at peace since my exam results are out and I pass! Yeay! I finally got to blog because my dad decided to postpone internet bill payment.
When I got back home, my parent told me that they renovating upstairs which include my room, why noww??? So I'm basically roomless, I don't have a wardrobe so my old clothes is nowhere to be found *ok, exaggerating, but I have to look for it* and I don't have a bed. Then I got my sister at home, my aunt staying for a week so I end up sleeping in my living room on a mattress... how sad is that?? *my sis took the couch* .My brother just got back, and I still have no idea when I will get my room ready, nevertheless I still happy since my room will be improved especially the toilet wall and floor ... ergghhh since my sis practically just left the room to ruin *we shared room, and last year I was shocked!*. I got to tell you that all my family are all big, so there's no way we share a bed unless it's a double.
 I'm not sure if I'm jet-lagged, but I practically sleep in the day, cause I can't really sleep on the mattress, on floor. My sis always take my bro's bed *when he wasn't home yet* after my aunt wake up early in the morning  and I'm not comfortable sleeping in the couch where the workers always passing, I even not that comfortable to watch the TV.. not to forget the NOISEEEE!! so basically I'm started to become stressed here and quite grumpy, especially when I am 24/7 at home and I had the awful thought of missing my rented house in Belfast only after a week getting back here... 
I'm going to Seoul this 5th July so hopefully I can be calm. Thank god I'm going for a while so it should finish by then.


So let just get this post started:-
I may not fly very frequently as many beauty blogger/vlogger out there but since I started studying abroad in Belfast and as I remember in my first year here I do travel by flight *to Mainland* occasionally, through this I learn and develop interest in packing my my beauty stuff into a single 1 litre clear plastic bag. However this year I didn't fly anywhere but I am confirmed to have an annual 13 hour flight from Belfast back to Malaysia so I have to keep this kind of packing in mind.

In general a flight back to Malaysia is not really a big deal in case of packing since I will always check in a luggage and in there you could just throw all your toiletries, skincare and makeup bags *even the ones in jumbo size* but just to be safe, some items I would like to keep with me and especially for long flight with long connecting hours, you're bound to need some beauty touch-up/refresh throughout the journey.

So for this post I will just share what exactly I stuffed into that standard airport clear ziplock plastic bag *mine is George Belfast City Airport* and probably I think I would like to try to comeup with some skincare regime during the long flights which I am so totally inspired after watching some of the famous beauty vloggers on this subject. I am diggin' in the idea of looking fabulous when you touch down.

Top:The plastic zip-lock and red makeup bag in my hand-luggage
Bottom: Makeup I kept in my hand bag

So these is what I brought with me for my Belfast City-Heathrow-KLIA flight. These are not checked in and I brought it together with me. I changed for time to time and even for my Seoul trip I will have a different packing and I will do that as well *not sure when it will be post, if I could I scheduled sometime when I'm away, but if it's not finish I guess it has to be after I got back*

Everyday in my handbag

This is actually I always bring with in my bag, to class or out with friends bla bla bla... for touch-up. 

I'm not really the type to bring all sorts of stuff...maybe sometimes, but basically these must be in the bag everyday.

I got my Chanel Mat Lumiere  Powder Makeup compact in #80 Contour which I really like for my touch up, and love the luxurious feeling of taking out Chanel compact from your handbag *the velvet pouch* . I know I know it sounds like a bit show off.. but whatever, hehe. Now I hate the sponge applicator unless I found some disposables that will fit into the compact*fail! I couldn't find them* so I apply with Eco-Tools Retractable Kabuki, which work really fine. If only the packaging is shiny gold it would have look more sophisticated and mega-luxurious.

Then I always have a lipbalm, this one is the Nivea Repair and Protect which I totally love.

Finally definitely a lipstick which I change for time to time depending on my look. For this journey I brought the Maybelline Watershine Pure in P22 which quite a deep pink fuchsia but sheer. It does look nice but not really my style and it look's cheap at time, being shiny and all. I brought it with me for this journey because it's easy to wear, hydrating *I put it on and pat to get rid of its shiny and left with pink tint* and it's cheap so  I don't mind if  I lose anywhere in my journey or I had to throw stuff from my bag... and definitely this process will help me to finish it. Haha! *I have been wearing this a lot too get it finish*

My Fluids which was in the plastic zip-lock bag

For my fluids...
From left:-
Clinique High Impact Mascara  in Black - Black mascara is a must, and it's counted as liquid.
MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation - I love this foundation for travelling, it's full coverage and the tube packaging make's it easy to be packed into a small zip-lock bag.
The Bodyshop Crayon Concealer - This is not really my favourite, but I guess it's easy to bring and to wear and I can encourage myself to finish it. This type of makeup is tricky, it seems like a solid like a pencil but I was told that only standard pencil size are allowed to be brought freely, abnormal size like jumbo size lip/eyepencil/foundation stick/concealer is counted as fluids and has to be in the zip-lock bag.
Origins GinZing for my eyes and with it's caffeine content, it should be great to wake up the eyes after long flight.
Origins A Perfect World Antioxidant Moisturizer with White Tea - An everyday moisturizer is very important for me. I would thought of putting it into smaller container but I'm not really comfortable with that and I think it's just fine in its original container.
Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash - I found this in travelling size *50ml* most cleanser are usually 150ml so this is just great to stuffed into a zip-lock bag and I think Simple do make decent cleanser. But I am still looking for ways to bring Origins cleanser...
E45 cream - I transfer some into a small pot and it's cheap so I don't mind if it's spill or whatever. I love this for my dry patches on my face, I would put it into my bag but since for a flight it's counted as fluid I put it into a zip-lock.
Dove Silk Dry Anti-Perspirant  Deodorant - I definitely have to keep my pits fresh. Now I do prefer a liquid deodorant but I brought a stick thinking that it is not counted as fluids and I just stuff into my hand-luggage but I was wrong...  it still counted as liquid and I had to stuff it into the zip-lock bag at the security... If that the case I should just ditch this, and just find one deodorant which is not that bulky.
Origins Brighter by Nature Serum - this is one of my regular serums, I would want to bring both but that will be too bulky so I had to choose and I brought this one because it's a smaller bottle.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock SPF50 - My regular sunblock, definitely very important.
 Origins A Perfect World  Age Defense Treatment Lotion - I've been searching for ways to bring this into the zip-lock bag. The original bottle is 150ml and previously in standard traveler bottle, it's always spill! That's annoying thinking it's a pricey toner, I almost thinking of not bringing it at all. But finally I discover the spray travelling bottle, before this I use it for my brush cleanser but then I don't see why I should do that hahaha!.. So I use the mini spray bottle for my toner, it definitely DOES NOT SPILL and plus since it's a spray, I can spray directly and I don't need to bring cotton pad. How come I never thought of this before???
PanOxyl 2.5% Aquagel - Benzoyl Peroxide gel is also important for me since I'm acne prone. I don't think I can ever be without it.
PERFUMES - Definitely important! Usually I would bring more than one perfume at least two so I can alternate in a trip. Naahhhhhh! that's not the reason, I would be suffice with only one. You know what I get annoyed by? when someone saw me putting on perfume and asking me for some?? It's not really I don't want to share, I just hate the fact we are wearing exactly the same perfume. So if someone ask for some, the least I can do is spray her the other one I wasn't wearing at the moment. Here I got small bottles of free sample which is really really great!! Now I can bring these and maybe just another bottle. The one I got here is Yves Saint Laurent Opium and Stella Mc Cartney Lily. They smell divine.
Another thing I brought is actually a mouthwash. I transfer some into small bottle but it spill after a while so I throw it before I reach Malaysia. I brought my my toothbrush but not toothpaste. So even if I brush my teeth without toothpaste at least the mouthwash still make my mouth refreshing.


For travelling I definitely kept a different bag for my non-fluids makeup and to be honest I don't think much about this packing and I put it the red makeup beg which I got from Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream Set. I thought of bringing the stuff I love most especially lipstick and my lipliners... but for some reason I can't remember if those counted as fluids or not. Since I wasn't so sure I don't pack much and just put more cheap stuff like the lipsticks to be safe *note that even in my hand bag I just brought the cheap Maybelline lipstick and cheap Nivea Lipbalm*. Well all these and lipsticks are allowed and I am so totally happy for that! Definitely I will pack something else next time.

The makeups which I kept in the red makeup bag

Nevertheless, I will still list down what I bring.

The Bodyshop Traveller Brush Set - Small and easy to bring and it contain the blush brush which I use for my highlighter *not really crazy about blush, I can live without them*, standard flat applicator brush for applying eyeshadow, slanted flat brush for my eyebrows and lash line as well, and a lip brush.

Then I brought my foundation brush, the Real Techniques Stippling Brush, Elianto Blending Brush and Eco-Tools Finishing Brush from the Touch-up Set and I keep the three brushes in the same pouch from Eco Tools Touch-up set. And of course I bring my eye lash curler and this one is from Elianto.

One definitely great to be brought traveling is eye makeup pallete, it's easy to packed and have the colours you need. Mine is the MAC Warm Smokey Eyes from the Packed To Go Edition. It got great colours such as Showstopper which is a matte dark brown great for  lashline and to smoke up your eye look and plus, my brows,. The they have Stormy Love which I think the frosty dark green, but it's actually dual chrome of dark green and dark brown. Others are Greensmoke (lustre tarnished olive), Tempting (lustre sinfully rich coco), Naked  Lunch (frosty minimal pink with shimmer) and Shrooms (satin soft beige). So perfect for an eyelook, colours, mid tone and deep tone and highligter.

MAC Mineralized Skinfinish Natural in Deep Dark - For my contouring which I used with the finishing brush. I would forgo blusher for my contour.

Revlon Bronzer in Sunkissed - This is used to higlight my cheekbone and the bridge of my nose. 

Then I brought my dark brown eyeliner, my MAC Mahogany Lipliner, a black eyeliner MAC Kohl Power Eye Pencil in Feline and nude pink lipliner which is the Silkygirl in Nude. 

For lipstick I brought the Maybelline Watershine Pure in B24 which is a beigey pink, and one in terracotta brownish red which Revlon Colorburst in Sienna. I almost finishing the Revlon one... *foreseeing Empties post*

Long-haul skincare

Alright the flight from Heathrow to KL is approximately 12 hours and mine is a night flight.

So I would get ready as usual with makeup and all and into the plane they will serve the late dinner.

After the dinner just when everybody is going to sleep, I just went for my hand-luggage and got my zip-lock bag and facial wipes. Yes, thank god facial wipes can be brought without having to stuff it into the small zip-lock bag. The one I bring is the Nivea Daily Essentials Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes and I remove all my makeup with this. I would love it if I got something like Bioderma or cleansing water, that would be nice or at least I would bring a liquid eye makeup remover but I forgot to pack that. What's great about them is that I don't have to rinse my face which can be a pickle. This is done in my sit since I'm just too lazy to go to the toilet and I will be hogging the toilet too long if I were to do this regime in the toilet. So wipes is all I got and I just have to try to remove as much... I wouldn't really remove my mascara but just clean the messiness and smudgey it makes. 

After that I spray my Origins A Perfect World  Age Defense Treatment Lotion onto my face and pat it.
Follow by the Origins Brighter By Nature Serum, Origins GinZing around my eyes, and finish with my A Perfect World Moisturizer. Then if there is active acne I would put on PanOxyl 2.5% around the area. I also apply some E45 on the dry patches.

And I probably went to the toilet especially when a lot of people is sleeping so toilet is not occupied and it's not obvious that I went to the loo. In there I would also take my mouthwash and for extra step you could also brush your teeth. So I'm not really a toilet fan and I just want to go there once, so to be safe I get everything I want to do done that time including applying my deodorant.

After that, I pretty much try to sleep as much as I can, but it's hard... I can't sleep easily generally especially on vehicles. Then when I almost reach the destination, it's time getting ready again.
Hmmm if I really fall asleep when I woke up I would just wash my mouth again and probably brush my teeth,
but I didn't so I just get on with the day.
 I would start to touch up my face. If I'm tooo conscious I would go and apply my liquid foundation a bit and change my clothes bla bla bla... but I'm not.
So I would just apply my Chanel Mat Lumiere Powder Makeup with the brush, but since I put on the drying acne gel and I have to remove that first. So I would just remove the acne gel by wetting my face and wipe it, I can just went to the toilet to wet my face, use my toner or just use the facial wipes. Then put on some more my moisturizer and definitely my sunblock. Before the powder makeup I apply some of the Bodyshop Crayon Concealer especially under the eye. I finish of the look with coats of black mascara, and if want to smudge some brown eyepencil or eyeshadow on the outer corner. Then the lipbalm and lipstick. 
FINALLY, fresh sprays of perfume. 


And that will be all.
Well I got to say, that if I didn't get to do these in the plan, I would go to a toilet as soon as I get off the plan.

SO hopefully this post will help those that will be on a trip and going to be on a long flight.

Review: Clinique Superbalanced Foundation

This is one of the first high-end foundation that I tried, despite being a MAC-fan I end up trying Clinique foundation first prior to MAC ones. 

The day I purchased this I actually went to the Clinique counter after Chanel's and manage to obtain a generous sample of Chanel Mat Lumiere, so I was hoping to get some from Clinique as well. When I got to the counter I asked for something medium to full coverage, so she recommend the anti-blemish one, but I would not want that since my face is quite dry so I thought that it might be too drying. So I asked about Superbalanced Makeup and she said that it's up to medium coverage, and I still want to try that. They don't have free samples to be given but for some reason I endup buying it straight away *thank god that they give me a free sample of High Impact Mascara, a generous 4g tube* It was quite an impulsive purchase.  When I went for a colour match, it seems fine and I don't know how, after a few days I just realized that it's too dark to my liking. Now that's the sad story behind this, other than that it is actually a really good foundation.

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup #14 Wheat 

From the website:-

"The great equaliser for combination skin. Provides moisture and absorbs oil where needed. Minimises appearance of fine lines.Helps protect skin from environmental damage. Contains anti-irritants and antioxidants. Water resistant. Non-acnegenic and oil-free. Ophthalmologist tested."

From the description it sounds like lovely foundation.

This foundation definitely help me during last summer when I got the dry skin issue, it's really moisturizing. So plus point for dry skin. The finish is definitely not matte, it gives slight dewiness due to its moisturizing effect. Although it does not make you shine as well probably due to its oil control features *something that act like a sponge that soak up the excess sebum I think it said on the packaging*, so definitely great choice for those with combination skin (eg. dry cheeks+oily T-zone)

 I find the finish it gave is definitely what most people would prefer, not too flat matte and not too dewy luminous shiny.  

I really like the finish and the feel of this foundation on my face, I feel less congested and much lighter.

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup in #14 Wheat - left: without flash, right: with flash

After blended into the skin - left: with direct flash, right: without flash

When I use this foundation I usually compare it to my Revlon Colorstay. Eventhough it is said to have medium coverage but it's actually quite thick *thicker than Revlon Colostay*, and I would say the 'medium' coverage it gave is very decent and buildable. I really enjoy the slightly thick formulation and it's very easy to work with, I never endup looking cakey. 

 This foundation has no fragrance which is new for me because the Revlon Colorstay really have a strong smell. After a while I got used to this fragrance-free foundation that when I reach for Revlon Colorstay I got taken by a bit surprise due to the strong scent. So people who got turnoff by cosmetics scent will definitely enjoy this odourless foundation.

I also like that it contains anti-irritants and anti-oxidant as well non-acnegenic and oil-free, which is very very good for the skin. I was really attracted that it is like a skincare foundation and protect skin from environmental damage.  I don't think I ever got breakouts from this *nonetheless my skin issue at the early times I purchase this is dry so I was acne-free*.

Despite all that good stuff, I didn't notice that it would minimise fine lines appearance probably because I don't really pay attention to that, as well as the water-resistant features that it claims. 

The thing that bothers me is definitely the packaging, the NO-PUMP bottle. Why why Clinique??? Why don't you provide a pump?  It is more annoying when this foundation is quite thick so it doesn't flow out that easily and it is a bother to pour it out from the bottle... haishhh...

Also I am quite disappointed with the colour match I got, Wheat #14 is so much darker... if this foundation match into my skin this would have been my everyday foundation. 

It is a hassle to lighten up the shade through mixing. I should have realize it sooner and took it back to the counter...Never  mind that sad story, I still use this foundation by lightening it. I mix it with my too light MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer in NC30 or the Revlon PhotoReady Makeup in Vanilla which I bought just for the this reason *lighten up the darker Superbalanced Makeup* and get it match to my liking. Although process of mixing is easier*less hassle* for the two foundation compare to the foundation with a cream concealer, I really prefer the Clinique Superbalanced+MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer combination. It felt more comfortable, the colour match better and easier. Other than that as well it upgrade it's coverage since the concealer is a high-coverage itself and most of the time I forgo the spot concealing process. 

The price of this is £21.50 for a 30ml bottle which is pretty much a standard price for a high-end foundation.

Overall rating : 4 out of 5

(point deducted due to the bottle as well because I couldn't enjoy this due to bad colour-match)

I really like this foundation and would love to repurchase it in my shade, but I'm not sure yet since I'm interested to try Clinique Even Better Makeup foundation, and I still not sure when since I do have a number of foundations now. We'll see how it goes.

Spring 2012 Beauty hauls - mostly makeups!

Alright just finish my exam. It's just one module that I sit for the 3rd time so hopefully 3rd time is a charm, and I scored this finally... haihhhh...


So continue on... first post after exam, beauty hauls.


This season for some reason I was into brushes. Just thank goodness, I was not sucked into MAC brushes crazyness, I was spending more drugstore brands *cheaper*. and I would thank the Boots's 3 for 2 offer for this.

so I'm not sure where to start but since I talked about brushes, so let's start with that, again these are all in random order because there's is no way I can remember when I got all these stuff. This seems a lot *and expensive* but you see I'll just put up the retail price here but most of the stuff I got for free or discounted from store offers or my beauty card club claim *rebate* and note that all price in GBP.

So as you know I am a big fan of Pixiwoo channel on Youtube, I really like that Samantha Chapman has comeup with a brush collection "Real Techniques" and it's all synthethic brush and affordable.
The face brush might cost a bit more than 10 quids, then there's brush set for a bit more 20 quids and in set they got about 4 brushes, making this collection really affordable.
Real Techniques

Top: The packaging,
 Bottom: Brushes in panaromic view style  brush  pouch,
 from left: pixel point eyeliner, accent brush, brow brush, base shadow brush, deluxe crease brush

Starter set (eyes): 20.99
I admit I got this because of the rave on the 'Deluxe Crease Brush' that is an amazing brush for putting on concealer. The other brush included in this are the base shadow brush, accent brush, pixel-point eyeliner brush and brow brush. Then there is a nice brush pouch which is really great for travelling especially.

Stippling brush : 10.99
I was just really tempt for some reason. After watching a few videos using stippling brush with foundation and I was more convinced.This one is all synthetic bristles and supposedly 'stippling and swirl' method can be used with this brush instead of the traditional dual fibre stippling brush method which is just to stipple.

Eco tools brush is also one of those recommended by Pixiwoo and love it because it's affordable.

Recycled Retractable Kabuki 12.99
I got this for touch up purpose and I don't really like the sponge that come with powder compact. I used to bring my Bodyshop Kabuki brush because it has pouch but it's just too much effort that I had to get it out from the pouch so I have to get those retractable one. This is a good option because it's a good quality and cheap.

Touch Up Set 14.99
I think I got this in the Boots offer 3 for 2, and instead getting something cheap for free, I make sure all the stuff I bought is of about the same price so I save more than 10.00 pounds. Great! The reason I snatched this set because I was attracted that it has lip brush and lash brow groomer because I don't have proper one. Other brush included is the Finishing Brush and Eye Shading Brush which is great for under eye sockets and it come with an extra pouch.

MAC Brush Cleanser 8.50
Did you know how long does my brush take to dry itself after cleasing?? Days!! Which I found so inconvenient so I got this brush cleanser. It's alcohol base so it disinfect, clean and condition, plus with faster drying. What's greater is that it's good for cleansing between use since it's fast drying as explained by MAC sale assistant when I was at the counter.

As you all know I am quite a MAC junkie so these what I got.

MAC

From Left upper:  MAC Lipliner in Dervish, Prep+Prime Eyes #Medium Dark, Lipstick  # Taupe, #Diva

Lipstick in Diva  13.50
A great deep red burgundy matte colour, with enough red pigment since I don't really like 'too much purple' like Rebel. Finally a decent lipstick for the wine lipstained effect.

Lipstick in Taupe  13.50
I got to thank ThePersianbabe for introducing me to this lipstick on Youtube. I'm buying this so it could be a great day to day lipstick since it's not so 'full on' and also it's a matte which I always prefer. It actually look quite nude but a bit darker on me but it's great! I would love to explain more but maybe on another post.


Prep+Prime Eye in Medium Dark 12.50
I thought of getting the MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre because it's a better match for my skin but I hate the idea of getting another paint pot for the same purpose because then what I would do with my Painterly Paint Pot?? So I decided to try this one. For days I'm doing simple wash of colour or simple eyeliner when I feel Painterly Paint Pot is just too much but I still can't forgo eye base, this is great. It's quite sheer and the sales assistant explain to me to use it very sparingly and before my concealer or even under paint pot.


Lipliner in Dervish 10.50
I can remember exactly why I got this, I think I was trying to get a lighter brown nude lipliner *lighter than Spice* but the sales assistant match me to this which is pink one but I kinda like it and got it which mean I end up not buying what I originally want to... haihh...*I wasn't on top of my game that day* But, I'm not really into wasting stuff as well as  returning so I still use it. It's lighter than Whirl  and has a bit of sheen.

From Left: MAC Eyeshadom (Refill Pan) # Cork, #Print

Eyeshadow in Cork 10.00
Eyeshadow in Print 10.00
So since I got the Z-pallete *large one* I was only thinking of getting eyeshadow or blush in pans so it's more cheaper. So I got MAC Pro Pallete  Refill Pan in Print to add a dark grey into my collection and it has some shimmer but not glittery. Another one in Cork which is a matte medium yellow toned beige, great for subtle contouring since my Brun is a bit too dark.

Packed To Go: 3 Assorted Black Eyeliner 27.50
I bought this just because it's a great bargain. Three full size MAC eyeliner for less than 30.00 pounds??? Woww! It would be really perfect if it got brown in it... haiihhh. So this include the Penultimate Eye Liner in Rapidblack, Powerpoint Eye Pencil in Engraved and Kohl Power Eye Pencil in Feline.

Mineralized Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle 21.50
Definitely the latest purchase,  a bit of retail therapy during exam mode. I always wanted to get MAC skinfinish and when MAC In Extra Dimension come up with 'to die for' golden tone Whisper of Gilt, I really want to get it, but UNFORTUNATELY they ran out. I missed it. There's some stock of Glorify which is more bronzy but I don't want that. So to make myself feel better I got the Mineralized one, Soft and Gentle. I might make another post on highlighters.

Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in La Somptueuse #39 23.50
I got to say I had to get an injection of luxury at times and Chanel does it for me, that's is all.
This is a matte to satin finish, very light and airy and the colour is just a divine deep red and very much 'me'! The luxury effect definitely obvious with the amazing packaging with 'click on' and 'Chanel' engraved.

Origins A Perfect World Anti-oxidant Cleanser with White Tea 17.00
I used Neutrogena before and I love the Refreshing Cleanser *blue bottle* but it ran out when I was back in Malaysia last summer and I asked my sis to get it since I want to stay at home that day, but she got the Deep Cleansing (orange liquid) instead which is very drying for me. After a while, I just had to change it. It takes me to use it up 3/4 of the bottle that I finally decided to throw it, haha! So instead of looking for the right Neutrogena cleanser I thought of getting Origins instead since I'm using their skincare.

These definitely I bought because of the offers in Boots. Nevertheless a little comment why I reach for these.

From Left: Revlon Photoready Makeup #Vanilla, Revlon Bronzer #Sunkissed, Barry M Dazzle Dust #Old Gold

Revlon PhotoReady Makeup in Vanilla #002 12.99

I thought of getting a lighter foundation to be mixed with my very dark Clinique Superbalanced makeup so that it matches my face better.

Revlon Bronzer in Sunkissed #02 7.99
I was attracted to it's finish, I thought it would be a great subtle highlighter.


Barry M Dazzle Dust in Old Gold #24  4.59
I was attracted as a cheaper pigment, and Old Gold seems like an easy colour to pull of.

Okay I got to admit this post is quite compact... I don't put much comment so that this post is not too long...
Though most I would include ins certain near future post.


So it's summer holiday for me now, I have about a month in Belfast before I go back to Malaysia and then I have my trip to Seoul Korea in July so can't wait for that. That reminds me that I haven't finish my post on my Europe trip last summer... I'm lame at this... '-.-