Ever Heard of a Brazilian Facial?

I've been getting Brazilian waxes done professionally for years now and I've gone from hot wax to cold wax to warm wax and now I settle for hot wax. For me, this one is the one that's less painful because the wax preps up your pores and relaxes them a bit so that whole hair removal process isn't super excruciatingly painful. If you go to the right waxer, it will be done well.

Brazilian waxing has been so popular nowadays. I actually prefer it because it's cleaner and more comfortable. I don't have to also worry much when I'm at the beach, swimming at the pool, doing pole, practicing yoga, or even teaching yoga with like hair peeking out from my swimwear or tiny pole shorts. It's just so perfect now that these super sexy 90s French cut swimsuits are coming back in fashion. Actually, sexier swimsuits and all-year-long swimwear weather that gives us excuses to wear shorter clothes are not the ones that constantly evolve. Even waxing has evolved to different styles. You can choose to leave a small landing strip or have a shape, or add bling like Jennifer Love Hewitt did, and even add-ons to care for your intimate area.

Each month is not complete without a visit to my favorite Strip branch

I recently tried new add-on to your waxing experience a few weeks ago at Strip: Ministry of Waxing. I've been going to them for around 5 or 6 years now since my friend introduced them to me as super fast, hygienic, and most importantly, virtually pain-free. I recommend them to anyone getting waxed for the first time ever or to anyone who wants a very good waxing experience. Their different yummy-scented waxes also have different purposes - chocolate for coarse hair, cucumber for extra TLC for the skin, and lemon for whitening and brightening. They also have other add-ons to prevent ingrown hair, soothe waxed skin, and slow down hair growth to make your waxing experience better.

Anyway, what I did try is their Brazilian facial, which just like their waxing, is fast and pain-free. It's kind of weird when you say Brazilian facial since it's not exactly done in the face and it's done in a part where it's not usually seen. However, just as we take care of the skin on our face, arms, legs, whatever, we also should care for the skin in our intimate area. Tight clothing (skinny jeans, leggings, stockings, and the tight, malfunction-free pole shorts we have), exercise, sweat, and dirt can contribute to darkening of the skin, ingrown hair, acne, and discoloration. No matter how sexy your shorts or bikini cut is, the discomfort of ingrown hair and acne plus the dyahe of discoloration in your bikini line can really affect your confidence. I cannot stress as well on bacterial buildup, which can lead to infection. So just as we clean the skin on our faces and do our monthly waxing, we should also take care of the skin down there.

 A Brazilian facial typically takes around 30 minutes and this involves a non-invasive exfoliation to remove dirt while delivering a pharmaceutical-grade solution that caters to a specific need.  I had this done right after my waxing, in fact (this service is called Wax and Polish). The machine for the Brazilian Facial looks like this.

With that machine, comes a wand (shown below), which deposits the solution. This solution treats a specific skin concern such as dull skin, acne, ingrown hair, and dry skin. The wand has a suction action kind of like the vacuum apparatus therapists use when giving regular facials. The suction effect stimulates blood circulation as well as remove dirt. The solution didn't sting at all and practically felt like water. For those with painful derma facial experiences, you need not fret with this as with regards to pain.

This wand gives a new meaning to "Lumos!" as it whitens and brightens dull and dry skin and decreases pigmentation

I kinda let the skin absorb the solution first before getting dressed so the skin gets all the benefits of the solution. When I asked when I could usually get this procedure done, monthly is usually recommended (you can even include it with your monthly Brazilian waxing). Results can vary depending on the skin type and actual condition of the skin. Due to me wearing compression pants, pole shorts, and yoga pants, which are quite tight on an almost daily basis, I'm quite prone to ingrown hair growth. This month, I didn't see those bumps much as I used to, If  you're the type of person who loves wearing jeans or if you're super conscious with your bikini area you may want to include this in your monthly waxing.

Aside from your intimate area, this procedure can also be done in your underarms, elbows, kness, belly, and even the buttock line, which can often be neglected. So go ahead and flaunt that bum with the squats you worked hard for in those cheeky shorts or bikini bottoms for a #SundayBumDay IG photo.

work on that perfect #SundayBumDay photo with squats, leg day, and proper skin care

Brazilian facials aren't just there to be sexy or have an excuse to wear sexy bikinis or one-pieces or wear those cheeky shorts which are becoming quite popular. They're there to help us care for our skin better, not just the skin that's exposed. This helps prevent bacterial infection and discomfort, and those stuff are definitely not sexy not to mention they're so much hassle because of the discomfort, the medicines, and so on.

This is probably the best #pdmachinegun I ever did because my knees are locked and my feet didn't sickle. I am smiling but that doesn't mean that I'm not in pain. Pula na balat ko guys! Maybe teaching those two hip opening sequences got me in splitty form. I pity my myotherapist tomorrow. #fitmua #flexifirst #powerful2016 #happyhips

A photo posted by Bambi De la Cruz 🐱🐯 (@bambikitty) on Jul 17, 2016 at 11:37pm PDT

The lighter, smoother bikini and buttock lines can also build confidence when doing those splitty and straddle-y pole tricks in a performance or competition or even if you're like me, the yoga teacher wearing the tiny pole shorts who does super deep hip openers.

Willing to try this new service at Strip? Then book an appointment with them by calling the Strip: Ministry Of Waxing branch near you.

Photo Credit:
SundayBumday photo by Dix Perez

Period Myths Debunked

With our periods come the 101 old wives' tales that we should or should not do. I'm sure you've heard of them and probably are guilty of doing them or cringing at the thought that people believed them. Here are some of the monthly flow myths we probably might have heard and you can sigh now, because none of them are true.

She may tell you funny tales

PMS is just plain kaartehan. It's imaginary and just an excuse for girls to get what they want.

"It's real, I tell you! It's reaal!!!"

We know you don't like the mood swings, irritability, grumpiness, and the yoyo of feelings we have. But most often than not, we hate it as well. And no, inasmuch as we wished it were some sort of imaginary thing or just kaartehan because we're crazy, it's something that's real. The cause of PMS is due to the hormonal changes in the body, not because we woke up one day and decided to make everyone miserable because we have our monthly flow. The good news though is that it can be alleviated by certain medications and a few lifestyle and diet changes can help us bid PMS bye-bye in the long run.

On your first period, wash your face with your blood so you won't get pimples.

It's so funny that a male friend asked me about this myth. Here's what I found out: your flow is the body's natural detox, and what's in there are stuff our body needs to get rid of. Washing your face with the blood will not prevent you from getting pimples. In fact, aside from the thought of it being super gross, it may aggravate the situation more. What will prevent you from getting pimples is proper skin care and a good facial wash for acne prone skin, not blood your body doesn't need.

Tampons will make you lose your virginity.

This has been a long debate in conservative crowds and Catholic schools. But no, tampons will not make you lose your virginity. They may stretch the hymen but they won't. Only sexual intercourse makes a person lose his or her virginity.

Taking a bath during your period will make you crazy

If this was the case, we would have a lot of crazy people around the world. There's nothing wrong about taking a bath during your period. In fact, a nice and warm bath can actually help alleviate menstrual cramps. Just avoid any super heavily perfumed soaps that may be harsh to your delicate area.

Jumping will make your period last for only five days

Periods generally last 3-5 days, sometimes they linger on for a sixth, depending on your flow. There is no relation between jumping and the monthly period. In fact, just for fun, I did burpees, jumping jacks, squat jumps, jump to hang swing, etc.,  and what did you know, my period lasted still for 5 days, which is how long it usually lasts.


Any crazy period myth to share? Let me know in the comments below.

Picture sources:
grandma and cat photos: pexels.com

Strip and Browhaus Opens Its Newest Branch

For Strip and Browhaus fans in the Mandaluyong or Ortigas area would be happy to know that they need not travel all the way to Makati or to Fort to get their monthly defuzzing. Just yesterday, Strip and Browhaus opened its newest branch at SM Megamall.

Strip has been around for six years and has been popular for its racy bikini waxing, depending on your comfort level or preference) Whether you just want the basic cleaning or are daring enough to go all off, it's up to you. If you want to permanently remove unwanted hair, there's the IPL ACE option which not only removes unwanted hair but also cares for the skin underneath it. IPL ACE is also pain-free and quick.

Browhaus will take care of what frames our face - our brows by giving the shape that flatters your face structure the most. If you have once been a victim of a plucking horror story, Browhaus can bring back the brows that are right for you.

The new Strip and Browhaus branch is located at the 5th floor of  the Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall. It's located near the escalator and the skating rink.

Lash Wishes and Bareskin Waxing Studio - Cinderella's Newest Best-Kept Secret

I admit being apprehensive about lash extensions. It looks pretty but I always thought it would be uncomfortable and it might be too heavy that opening your eyes would be difficult. Some of my friends said that it can be addicting so I thought that I'd give it a try once.

Lash Wishes, a new designer lash extension studio that opened, invited me to try out their services. I was a bit apprehensive at first but since a friend told me that it will really save time in getting ready, I gave it a go.

Lash Wishes was first established in 2013 and it already has a branch at Mall of Asia. This new branch is located at the heart of one of Makati's biggest shopping districts tucked away at the basement level of Cinderella department store in Glorietta. It's like a secret getaway after a whole day working.

Lash Wishes has a whole lot of choices depending on your preference. You can go natural and just enhance your lashes or go for the whole shebang - long, lush lashes that look like you woke up with sexy smoldering eyes. If you feel a bit festive and crazy, you may add color, feathers, or Swarovski crystals. Lash extensions are great for the busy woman who must go from one place to another and still look wide awake and made up and has very little time for a full makeup routine.  

I got lush lashes, which is around 1000 pieces per eye. I chose them to be arranged where the strands in the middle are thicker than the strands on the edges, giving my eyes a wide-eyed doll-like look. Some opted for cat's eye, which is almost like a sex-kitten cat eye look reminiscent of Bridget Bardot where the outer edges of the lashes create a winged effect.  When I asked what fibers they use, Lash Wishes uses silk fibers instead of human hair, so it's lighter and almost weightless. The procedure takes an hour to do to get the lashes really looking lush and natural. 

So here are my new lash extensions (the exact service I got costs approximately Php 1,200). I really got a lot of good compliments when I posted the results in Instagram. And they are very thick but despite the thickness, it's relatively lighter than expected. Of course, there's still a bit of weight and it took a bit to get used to. But nevertheless, it does look really pretty. It's like wearing eyeliner everyday. Lash Wishes is also the only eyelash extension salon to date that offers Japan's "3D lashes". 

Of course with all lash extensions, there's the upkeep and we can't skip it if we want to maintain our doll-eyed fluttery look. I can't wear mascara or curl my lashes (but really, with lashes like these I wouldn't need to) and I have to be really careful in using eye makeup remover and washing my face. To maintain these lashes, I need to come back ever 1-2 weeks for touch-ups. 

Right next door to Lash Wishes is Bareskin Waxing Studio., an intimate waxing studio that offers waxing services both for men and women at affordable prices.

Living in a tropical country, hemlines are shorter and we have the pleasure of wearing our sundresses and tank tops all-year round. As a makeup artist, I'm very OC and concerned with well-groomed eyebrows. Getting defuzzed down there is also a monthly must-do nowadays. Bareskin Waxing Studio is the go-to place to get your defuzzing done from head to toe for very affordable costs for the very busy woman. Waxing services cost as low as Php 150 (eyebrows or upper lip) and a full Brazilian is Php 850. They offer both hot wax and cold wax, for those who want different options and the services are done in the privacy of their waxing rooms.

There are different waxes for every part of the body. That is the reason why there are different waxes available, because hair thickness is each part is different. There's a different wax for the face and a different wax for underarm, leg, and bikini area.

I got my legs waxed and for my legs, they used vanilla wax. The vanilla wax is applied using a roller, which results in a more even and precise application. 

Aside from removing the unwanted hair, waxing also removes the dead skin cells which dull up the skin. Perfect for a girl who loves wearing shorts a lot. And it's super quick you can get it done fast. Of course, that would depend on your pain tolerance but since this kitty feels no pain, mine went fast.

For those who want to add a bit of bedazzling spice in their life, Bareskin Waxing Studio also offers vajazzling. If you don't know what vajazzling is, it was first made famous by Jennifer Love Hewitt. Now we don't have to go all the way to a posh waxing salon in the States since vajazzling is now available in our shores.  

Happy bloggers after their treatments.

One of the post-waxing cares we were taught was to exfoliate 48 hours after the procedure to prevent unwanted ingrown hairs. I'd like to thank Bareskin Waxing Studio for the yummy-smelling strawberry scrub I can use. :) Actually, I used it already and it smells like those yummy strawberry wafer sticks that kinda felt good enough to eat. It also feels very gentle on the body instead of stingy and scratchy.

For those who want to know more, log on to www.facebook.com/lashwishes and www.facebook.com/bareskinwaxingstudio for more information, promos, and updates. You may also check out @lashwishes and @bareskinwaxingstudio in Instagram as well. 

What's In the Gym Toiletry Kit?

Part of being beautiful is not just layering makeup or all those lush creams. Since I started going deeper into exercise and fitness, it kind of makes sense that it also helps not only with the body's circulation, but your overall well-being. Pole has helped me gain strength in my core, which I still need in my job, carrying all my heavy equipment. It also helped in my overall self-esteem. When I cross-trained in yoga, I started out first with a gentle yin practice, with the initial intention of getting a split. When I got in deeper by doing dynamic yoga practice like Vinyasa, it helped also with my own inner peace and concentration. Exercise, whatever form you may find comfortable be it dance, gymnastics, Crossfit, running, or just working out in your neighborhood gym can really do good not only in detoxifying the body and giving it its definition but making you stronger and improving your own well-being.

So hence, I have finally decided to just have my own little gym bag which I have ready just in case I could sneak some time to pole or visit the yoga studio to get my endorphin fix. Aside from our change of clothes and the usual essentials, I'd like to share what I keep in my gym toiletry kit and how I maximize space. The bag I have to work out isn't very big. It's actually a tiny one that has the same capacity as a school backpack. Thankfully, my pole/yoga clothes are very tiny and save for the heels I sometimes need to bring for pole class, I can still have a lot of space and it doesn't get overstuffed. 

I'll start first by going through my toiletry kit, which usually contains the toilertries I need if I have to shower after I work out, since I have a meeting later or just to refresh after sweating the pizza I had the day before.

Since my exercise bag is small, naturally, my toiletry kit is just a small pouch instead of a toolbox or a tote bag. Number one rule, sample sizes are our best friends. This is when the shampoo/conditioner sample sachets or bottles we get in magazines, events, department store counters, or giveaways come in handy. Same goes for the shampoo and shower gel bottles we get in hotels. 

So, here are the contents in my toiletry bag:

See? No need to lug out the big pump bottles of shampoo and conditioner. For those who aren't really fond of sachet sizes, you can always buy travel-sized bottles at department stores and just transfer your favorite shampoo there. Okay back to regular programming. I prefer using liquid shower gel to solid soap as well since it's easier to pack and less messy in the bag. I save the solid cleansing bars for home use.

First row (L-R)

Eye cream and Face moisturizer with SPF 35 - Olay Total Effects Eye cream is light enough to be used during the day and the double-duty Olay Regenerist Day Cream has SPF as well so no need to bring a separate bottle for SPF

Second Row

• Shu Uemura Cleansing oil (travel bottle) - Going to Hot Yoga or Vinyasa yoga class is better with a makeup-less face since I don't want my makeup to land or stain the studio yoga mat. This is my all-time favorite in removing heavy duty makeup easily. Also, it removes deodorant, i-Tac, and Grip Paste residue as well.
• Facial Wash
• Shampoo and Conditioner - To keep with the natural and organic theme, I packed organic shampoo with no harsh chemicals. I got Human Nature Shampoo and Conditioner in the tiny 50-mL bottles (Php 44.75 each) at the grocery store. Right now, what I do is buy the big bottle and just refill the smaller bottles until probably when the small bottle gives out (it's actually Human Nature Peppermint shampoo in the bottle when I already finished the Mandarin Fresh). They smell really good too!
• Shower Gel -The Body Shop shower gel gift sets are classic gifts and I use this for travel or in my exercise bag because it's so handy. Sometimes I switch to a different scent when I feel like it. The gel variation is also pole dance friendly!
• Baby Wash - Human Nature's Baby Wash smells really mild! It's also an awesome all-in-one gentle but effective wash that can be used as a facial wash, body wash, and feminine hygiene wash
• Feminine Wash - Again, I am thankful for Human Nature for having tiny bottles that are perfect for the tiniest gym bags. 
• Deodorant - roll-on, stick, or spray. Doesn't matter as long as it does its job keeping my armpits dry and my skin likes it.
• My Amazing Blow Dry Quick Shake 'N' Spray (travel size) - So I can blow-dry my hair so that it can look decent enough for my next appointment without taking an hour to do so. Read my review about it here and thank me later when you purchase your first spray bottle. 

Third Row

• Hand cream - I use this if I know that I won't be touching a pole after. This works amazingly for chafed heels (since I work out barefoot) and hands as well as rough knees and elbows
• Wide-toothed comb - separates our wet hair strands and detangles hair without breaking it.

My second bag is more specialized, since it contains equipment that I need for the actual sport I do, as well as a bit of after-pole or yoga care.

This is the one I take out while at the studio.

0Top Row:

• iTac - Initially, I use this in pole to give my skin some grip since grip paste can be too much. a little goes a long way! I've had my little jar of iTac since Stellar 2. 
• Tite Grip - I use this on my shoulders to prevent slipping from sweat when I do my shoulder mounts. 
• Leukoplast and Mueller foam - in the absence of wrist support (Tite Grip and iTac are available at the Polecats Manila Studio) 
• Rubbing Alcohol - to help dry up the skin and make it more pole-ready. As long as there's no moisturizer.

Bottom Row:

• YogaLove Healing Cream (check link for store availability and contact information) -  a nice-smelling cooling cream that's non-oily and easily absorbed by the body. it relaxes the mind and relieves pain. I use this to relieve migrains too.
• Band-Aids - for scraped skin and whatever little boo-boo or accident happened.
• Wet Tissue - to clean dirty feet and hands after 
• Salonpas - the more travel-friendly pain killers, the better.

With packing-friendly packaging, I still have space for my workout gear and towels, and it's still light enough for me to carry from Strata to Podium and back. Plus, lockers are tinier this time and can't seem to fit the big gym bags that double as overnight bags,. 

Next up is what I pack inside the main gym bag. Stay tuned. 

Strip Launches Gingerbread Cookie Wax for the Holidays

Thankfully now, getting defuzzed down there is no longer taboo and has become almost like a monthly ritual like haircuts or eyebrow threading. process. On a personal note, being a pole dancer, this is a required monthly process for me for obvious reasons, like unsightly accidents peeking out during that jade or reverse ayesha. Well, my activities have made it a must, I guess, but I think it's true what they say, once you go bald, you'll never go back.

I've heard of Strip: Ministry of Waxing from friends who swear by it as it being less painful than other waxing parlors. I'm a recent convert after a session last summer since my usual waxing salon was fully booked. Anyway, just a backstory. I'm no waxing virgin and I've tried it all - hot, cold, and warm. Although I've never had waxing accidents, I've heard some accidents from my friends who tried hot wax and the wax hardened too much on the skin, so I sort of had a hot wax phobia for the longest time. My first session at Strip was, well awesome beyond comparison because there was relatively less pain, the results were cleaner, and the procedure was much, much faster. One thing too that I found quite cute with Strip is that their waxes had different "flavors". I don't know what the "flavor" signifies, but it sort of made waxing fun. A personal favorite of mine is the strawberry flavor, and it's my usual "classic" order whenever I'm there.

Strip: Ministry of Waxing comes up with different "flavors" depending on the season. And just in time for the Holidays, I was invited to try the Gingerbread Cookie Wax, a white-colored wax that resembles cookie or cake batter when melted with the comforting mellow and sweet smell of gingerbread.

I find the smell of gingerbread quite comforting and pleasant. I burn some ginger essential oil whenever I do yoga for a burst of energy during the morning. With its energizing scent, it also eases the senses like dizziness and nausea, especially for a girl like me who's super prone to motion sickness. Gingerbread cookies also remind me of happy Christmas desserts and gingerbread cottages from fairy tales. Now all I need is a cup of tea and an English accent.

I set my appointment at the Strip branch at Serendra, which is like 5 minutes away from my house. The staff was very accomodating too. They needed to reheat a new batch of wax since they were quite full that day but it was okay because I got to see the wax during its melting process, like this.

I told you it does look like melted ice cream or cake batter. Had I not known it's hair removal wax, it would have been something to dig on to eat with a wooden spoon. But yes, my dears, it is hair removal wax.

I really like Strip's facilities as their treatment rooms are very clean. For first timers, I have to tell you this: They use fresh spatulas each application and you are ensured that there's definitely no double dipping. All therapists use latex gloves during treatment as well. Prior to the treatment, I was also handed wipes to wipe my nether regions to make sure I was 100% clean as well.

The thing with heated wax is that it opens and relaxes the pores so hair is easily removed from the follicle. It's also less painful, delivering faster results than breaking the hair each time the wax is being pulled. It's a plus for those who want to get things done right away, since the procedure is much faster and also, for those who are intolerant to pain, hot wax might be your best bet. I have very high tolerance to pain, so the experience was almost like zero pain to me.

For those who have low pain threshold, you can squeeze this stress relieving monkey or bite a candy cane pillow or throw darts on the wall.

Just like my past experiences at Strip, I was very much satisfied with this treatment. For a first-time waxing treatment, i.e. a waxing virgin, this is a place I would recommend and although the treatment can get pricey (Php 1,200 for an all-off treatment), it's worth it since they get it done fast, clean, and with less pain (you may avail of their waxing packages or try getting this during special occasions like birthday, Christmas, pole competition season, etc). For those girls who have undergone waxing treatments for years, this would be a real treat, especially if you don't want pain.

At the counter, they had cute gingerbread cookies (kinda reminds me of the candies I used to get after a visit to the doctor).

These cookies are for all Strip clients and are provided by Party Perfect (contact them at party.perfect@yahoo.com or call 0917-5361221 or 09178376364). Party Perfect and Strip currently have a tie-up where for a minimum Party Perfect purchase of Php 900, they get 30% off their gingerbread brazilian all off at Strip. For those who are still looking for Christmas or wedding/party giveaways, you may contact them and get a special treat from Strip.

For those interested to try this treatment, you may book an appointment with Strip: Ministry Of Waxing at the following branches:


Strip Serendra
2nd Floor Serendra Bonifacio High St.
Bonifacio Global City Taguig 1634
T  632 901 0892

Strip Greenbelt 5
4th Floor Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center
Makati City 1200
T  632 501 3997

My Thoughts on Angelo Falconi Professional Make Up Brush Cleanser

Brush cleansers are one of my must-haves. If I'm doing makeup for several faces, for example, a brush cleanser makes my tools clean for the next user. Having a bottle of brush cleanser sure beats having several brush sets or duplicates of the same brush (and it's way cheaper too). Plus, cleaning brushes in between colors enables the colors to come out much more vibrant. I notice that if I use the same brush over and over without pausing to remove excess pigment, colors can tend to get muddy. So instead of peach, I end up with a somesorta brownish hue.

There are several brush cleansers in the market - some from luxury brands and others from professional makeup brands sold in most makeup supply stores. I've tried them all, and I've narrowed down my choices to those that are quick-drying, retain the quality of my brushes, and smell good, fresh, and clean instead of chemical-like.

A makeup artist friend of mine has raved about a brush cleanser created by Angelo Falconi III. Trust a makeup artist when he or she raves about a product because these are people who use makeup for a living. I also trust most products created by a makeup artist because these are people who understand both the needs of a professional makeup artist and a client. For those who don't know, Angelo Falconi III is a makeup artist who owns a branch of salons in the South area. He also taught in a makeup school and many talented makeup artists have graduated under his helm.

Anyway, my makeup artist friend says that his brush cleanser has all the stuff that I want namely:

• smells really good and fresh - a combination of tea tree and peppermint oil. So no scent that your brushes came from a chem lab. Yaye!
• leaves brushes clean without drying out the bristles - even gel eyeliner and lipstick and stubborn liquid foundation
• dries fast - so it's ready for use with a little swish and flick.
• affordable - a bottle costs almost half of other brush cleansers in the market.

I learned about it probably 2 years ago, but I never found out where I could purchase it until I saw bottles at Purebeauty in Serendra. Wow! Now it's available in a place that's super near! There are two kinds of bottles available, both 250 mL - one with a spritzer and one with just a bottle cap. There are also two strengths available - regular strength for quick-cleaning in-between usage and extra strength (don't get scared, wait for the description) for deep cleansing of all brushes and to remove concealer, eyeliner, and lipstick buildup.

I just came from an early client this morning, and as I got home, it would be the perfect time to test the brush cleanser. I usually clean my brushes with a brush cleanser first before washing them, since it's easier that way, plus it helps me develop the habit and make me constantly aware of the fact that I have to, even quick cleaning between usage. Anyway, when I spritzed a good amount on a tissue, I took a sniff and I was glad that it smelled quite nice. It smelled like peppermint and tea tree oil. The peppermint part made it smell more like aromatherapy oil than vapor rub, and we all know how clean and refreshing the scent of tea tree oil could be. FYI, tea tree oil has antibacterial properties so yuckies are zapped and killed in a spritz and swish. As the label says, it "eliminated 99.9% of germs without damaging makeup brushes".

Anyway, so I road-tested my cleanser. There are two ways that I cleaned the brushes. First, I used this method:

Step one was spritzing the bristles with brush cleanser, just a couple of sprays would do. This works on big brushes, like in this case, my 187 brush, which I use for liquid foundation. Then, after a good spritz, I rub the bristles against a paper towel (I prefer paper towels because they're disposable and I wouldn't worry about unattractive stains that might be left on the towel even after laundry). I repeat the process if I want it super clean.

Another method is over here, which works if I'm cleaning several smaller brushes, not to mention it saves more product. What I do is spritz some product (i.e. brush cleanser) on the paper towel and swishie the brushes on it.

After my quick-cleansing, my brush looks clean. Foundation, especially dark-colored ones stain my white brushes, and sometimes, for really pigmented colors, they leave a faint stain even after washing. I like the fact that I could confidently use my brushes for the next client. Plus, it's quick-drying so I don't end up getting brush cleanser on my makeup.

The bottle costs Php480 at Purebeauty in Serendra, and they're both available in a spritzer and regular bottle, both at the same cost. Better check though if you're purchasing a regular strength or regular strength cleaner. I purchased regular strength though, since I use it for pre-cleaning brushes before washing them and cleaning brushes before starting on another face, if I'm doing more than one face in a gig. I'm glad that there are more Philippine-made products that are coming out for makeup artists (and makeup fanatics) to use.

I Love My Epilator!

I first learned about epilators from a V-log done by Pursebuzz, and seeing how convenient and quick they seem to remove hair like a razor but have results that last as long as a wax. Two of the celebrities I worked with before in a theater production swear by it as well. I wanted to buy myself one but I found the rates to be deathly expensive (around Php 4,000) hence it took me quite some time to buy.

While at Singapore a few weeks ago, I chanced upon an epilator on sale, currently priced at SGD 45 (approximately Php1,620). Well, here it is, it's now in my possession. I've been scraping myself too long on razors and changing razors every so often is getting more expensive.

Hello Philips Satinelle epilator! This looks just like the one that Pursebuzz reviewed. It looks like an electric razor except for the head, which looks like this up close:

It looks like a torture device really, but these are stainless steel discs that act like multiple tweezers that grab body hair from the root as they rotate, removing hair at half the time it takes tweezing or threading.

It operates by the flick of a switch. It has two speed functions. The faster one can be used on legs while the slower, I use on underarms or during my first epilation session ever. Yanking hair from the root sounds too painful for words but if you're like me, who's used to waxing every month, the pain is just the same. Unlike shaving though that you could do in the shower, for this model, skin (and surrounding areas should be dry) as you use this device as it's plugged on a socket. So it's great to use this after shower before going to bed or when you're wearing your miniskirt before you head off the door. Take note too, that some redness could occur depending on your skin condition so do a bit of test or "practice session" before using this on an important event.

For me, it's definitely way better and longer-lasting than shaving my legs and less messier than waxing. Although there can be a few stubborn hairs left after, that's where threading or plucking comes to clean them up. It's even easy to clean too. All I have to do is remove the cap containing the discs and rinse them on running water, dry them up, and it's good to go (I still kept the sheet with the directions and made sure to read all safety precautions and instructions before using). I use this on my legs and underarms. I leave the brazilian waxing to the professionals. :)

Super Steal Gift Ideas 500 and Below

Has anyone done her shopping yet? Or are you like me that has the nasty habit of cram-shopping? While being guilty of that crime, I've scoured several options for friends and family for gift options to consider. What's more is that some of them are readily available online ergo no need to spend time squeezing through crowded malls. All of these stuffs cost 500 or less too.

There's a gift for everyone and I'll let you know why:

The gift for the one who's always stressed:


I really suggest Echostore's Spa in a Bottle (Php130) and/or Spa in a Can (Php 195) after I got introduced to it. It's a teensy bottle or can that definitely perks you up when you need to or calms you down when you're too stressed. It definitely unclogs the nasal passages with the scent of peppermint, citrus, and lavander. The Spa In A Can's perfect in the purse and for travel. I have two Spa in a Bottles - one at home and one in the car to clear my senses during the horrid holiday traffic.

For those who are addicted to anything that smells yummy:


At Php 100 pesos each, Milk and Mixture's hand sanitizers and EDTs in yummy scents that remind us of our favorite desserts and drinks. Vanilla Lollipop smells like ice cream and Warm Vanilla Hand Sanitizers is a perfect dupe of my expensive vanilla hand sanitizer. Melon Candy is a very fresh scent if you're in for the fruity vibe and Apple Pie Torte gives us a warm whiff of cinnamon and apples for a Christmas-y smell. Another shoutout to the Tiramisu drizzle or hand sanitizer which smells like our favorite Italian dessert. You could also check out the other products like sushi soaps, lotions, and massage oils in sexy scents of Vanilla Crumble, Chocolate Fudge, and Gingerbread Cookie. The products are very affordable you could give one to all of your friends and clients depending on their taste or favorite food.

For those who would want super smooth skin:



These cubes look like gum drops in our favorite candy stores but they're actually sugar scrubs from Barenaturals, an online store first known for selling all-natural . they're actually glycerin soap cube bars coated in sugar in jars that feel cushy on the skin. The soap is non-drying so it's great to use now when cooler temperatures and recycled airconditioned air gets our skin dry. Aside from this variety shown above ( Rooibos Tea With Apple and Tomato, which smells really fruity), they also have sugar scrub with pineapple extract, lavander, coffee cubano scrub, and muscovado sugar cube scrub). Again, this could be ordered online as well.

For those who want lush, lovely hair and more:


Argan oil smells nutty instead of heavy and glides on like syrup on the hair instead of greasy. It could be massaged on the hair at night for shiny, thick, and smooth hair. Aside from getting lush and goddess-like hair, Argan Oil could be used to soothe dry cuticles or soothe the skin after being baked under the sun. A 10-mL bottle costs Php 198, and a little definitely goes a long way. Again, this is available at the Barenaturals site.

For the techie or non-techie annoyed at the knots and ties in the bag:

I purchased Clutterzap earbones from Sophie to give as a little gift and then when I bought a pair for myself, I was like, why didn't I think of getting earbones sooner? I swear, it's saved me time from having to solve the jigsaw puzzle of kalat I have in my bag caused by my earphone wires being tangled to a maze that takes minutes to solve (and embarrassing moments too revealing my kalat self). Isn't it great that my earphone wires are neatly tucked in a neat spool in my bag just like this:
I'm telling you, I'm as low-tech as an upgraded Captain Caveman but I love my earbones. They cost Php180.00 and there are several color options to choose from.

With super steals like these that hardly require us to take a trip to the mall, we've got a stress-free Christmas shopping for our loved ones that's pocket-friendly. Enjoy the last stretch towards Christmas and have a stress-free Happy Holidays!

Security System for Baby Skin

With our shizophrenic weather, would you believe that the rainy season has pushed forward to the supposedly Christmas months already? Just yesterday, I unfortunately experienced a drizzle on my way from the office building of a project I'm doing to the mall. Anyway, we do know that there are hassles the rain bring about, like floods and puddles of stagnant water which bring about more hassles like traffic and the dreaded dengue (tadadadaaan).

With the dengue scare rising, precautionary measures have been taken. One time, my favorite organic store had their citronella-based bug sprays selling like hotcakes it was too late for me to grab a bottle. If you're a mom and have kids that go to school, you'd notice that schools have already taken precautionary measures and distributed memos to parents already.

Citronella and other organic-based insect repellents have been proven to repel bugs like mosquitoes. Personally, I like the citronella alternative because it's safer on the skin and just as effective. I'm not bothered by the scent and I'm actually fond of it. However, I do understand that there are some people who aren't exactly fond of the citronella scent but would want mosquito protection that's safe on skin.

Esel introduced me to Guard, an insect repellant that could widen our choices when it comes to shopping for insect repellent during our next grocery trip. I received a sample two weeks ago and of course, I did a road test first.

The bottle pictured is actually the smallest size, I think about 30 mL, so I could fit this in a teensy tiny pouch should I need to reapply. The bigger bottles cost around Php120, this you could take on your next backpacking trip or let this stay at home. It's quite ironic though, that when you hear the word "Guard", you immediately think that upon opening, an armed dude would just materialize by your side and defend you from bugs that come your way, The Human Fly included. Despite the tough-side name though, Guard has a baby powder scent, so it's not that offending to the nostrils. In fact, it does remind us of childhood memories when our mommies or yayas would dust our backs and necks generously with baby powder. That nicks out the complaint of having insect repellent lotions in the past that smell like kerosene. We do understand that insect repellents are supposed to be offending to insects so they won't be attracted to the skin, but that doesn't include humans, right?

Secondly, Guard's anti-bug ingredient is Picardin, instead of DEET (N, N-diethyl-metatoluamide). Although DEET is an effective solvent, it's actually a skin irritant that should not even used under clothing or on damaged skin. Of course we wouldn't want harm on our kiddies' skin right? Picardin in fact, is the one recommended by the World Health Organization as an ideal insect repellent. It's less likely to irritate the skin than DEET but it's effective in keeping the bugs at bay. You could use this on children too, so our kiddies stay protected and bug-free.

Thirdly, when I tested this, the other thing I noticed is that it didn't leave a grimy or sticky feeling like I'm wearing an invisible overcoat on a hot and humid day. When I sweat, I still smell baby powder and no irritating chemical-like scent. It's great to use this on summer outings on the beach where we're exposed to the elements or our next camping trip don't you think?

In case though you're taking and using this on your next pictorial, here's how skin treated with Guard looks with and without flash.

Basically, there's not much effects or white-casting and skin appears relatively more normal. I suggest if you're a makeup artist to pack one on your kit so the model (and even you) stay protected from possible health hazards.

As of now, Guard is available at Rustan's and Shopwise branches. I saw Guard already at Rustan's Makati while I was grocery shopping. With the baby powder scent and a formula totally safe and comfortable on the skin, I guess mommies, daddies, and kids could now breathe for a lotion that's great for the family. If you're a backpacker or the type who's always exposed to the great outdoors, I suggest packing a big bottle of this as well.

Although I spend most of my time in the concrete jungle that is the city, my uniform of shorts and skirts tells me to slather some of these. Mosquito bites of course are irritating and they leave itchy patches and raised areas that destroy the continuity of flawlessly long and smooth legs. As they say, prevention is still the best cure.

[disclaimer: Product provided for review]

Old Shirt, New Shirt? Hard To Tell With Ariel, right?

Which among these two shirts worn by these two models have been washed and stained ten times and which was brand new?

On my seat, munching on a plateful of spicy nachos, it was quite hard to tell. I checked one shirt, which didn't seem relatively thinner than the other one. Usually, washing an outfit ten times could result to fading or the fabric wearing thin but both shirts seemed like they came straight from the store. When the answer was revealed, my answer from my seat was proven wrong.

It was another exciting day as some members of the media participated in a game that pitted them with clothing experts from Metropole Laundry and Dry Cleaners, Inc and Bench. Trivia and questions on fashion, laundry, washing machine 101, and even Ariel were asked trimming down the crowd as the questions got harder. Some questions were quite easy, like choose among the choices were Ariel endorsers up to trivial ones like the origin of the iconic T-shirt we know today.

Game host Mo Twister puts Bench Senior Store Operations Manager Patrick Tan's fabric care knowledge to the test. Patrick successfully answers all questions and wins this round. So how about the prizes? The prizes were actually donated to the participant's charity of choice.

Ariel actually is a brand that doesn't disappoint me. Not only do I like the name (since it belongs to my favorite Disney Princess, heeheehee) but it performs quite well, with no chalky extenders that cause the annoying whitish residues on the fabric. Every particle in the powder dissolves right there in the water and my clothes are clean whether I hand wash them or dunk them in the washing machine. Even without fabric softener, my clothes still smell really good and fresh. Even with a (slight) rubbing, the powder didn't feel hot on my skin. The little "O" particles are really cute too!

The little "O" particles weren't just confetti though. They actually do the job. The Oxybleach system of Ariel removes tough stains (even metallic stains like rust, blood, copper, and even dye) with minimal scrubbing and rubbing. Sounding like a superhero to blast the stains to nonexistence yes? There's the bleach activator that decolorixers and removes the stain in the wash and even when drying the clothes out under the sun, Ariel's got photobleach, a light-activated agent that provides additional bleaching effects (like when the work inside the wash isn't enough). If that's not enough, there's fabric care enzymes to care for the clothes to prevent the sadness of the fabric weakening and our wallets thinning as our credit card bill goes up for the need to shop for clothes.

I also got some tips in fabric care, which I ought to use later on so I don't end up buying more clothes with the excuse that my old clothes are faded already. Like when there's a stain, the best way to get rid of it is to act fast and not wait for the next laundry day to remove it, since as time ticks on, the stains set and the fabric weakens. And remember those tags that annoy us that we remove them? Before removing them, it's best to read them since they are fabric care instructions so we know how to make our clothes last longer. If we hate the thought of having them in our skin, maybe we could write them in a notebook so we have a reference to look back on, yes?

Definitely with this day and age to save, my clothes and linens would definitely last longer with proper care and the right detergent so they still look like new. So how about colored outfits? I was quite impressed that the colors of my dark-colored outfits didn't gray out. As you all know, I wear black most of the time like I'm in perpetual mourning and this is a must since I want my black outfits to still be black for a long time. It worked too for my recent ukay haul where I washed my old-new outfits in Ariel - thrice after having it subjected to hot water and Domex twice. Did it look old? Nawp nawp. The only ukay haulage that looked old on me was the beat-up leather bag I got that was peeling in all places, but I really wanted it that way.

Ariel costs actually Php6.00 per sakto pack, which isn't bad. The sakto packs are actually great for travel when you wash your own clothes or if you want to portion the Ariel you use for your laundry per laundry day.

Before the event closed, a mini-fashion show featuring clothes by Bench was shown.

What I didn't know was that the announcer said that one group was stained and washed ten times, and the other group was brand new. Which was which? Hard to tell, right?

Sudsers to Clean Up My Tools

Clean brushes is the number one requirement for most, if not everyone that I have worked with. Even in-between faces, it's best to sanitize brushes with brush cleanser (either homemade or store-bought, or just a spritzing of mild alcohol would do). After a long day's work, though, brushes are washed and dried to be ready and clean for use the next day.

For personal use, I wash my brushes once a week but in-between makeup on my face during the week, I rely on my favorite brush cleansers MAC and Ellana (their formula has improved by the way with the same fresh cucumber melony-tea tree oil scent). Sometimes, if I did quite heavy makeup, I can't help but do the washing too.

Washing for me is still the number one way to get the brushes at their cleanest. That and subjecting them to a UV chamber, if I had one. I like clean brushes on my face and I'm sure many agree. Brushes that are clean are safe, sweet-smelling, and super soft. For my three years in purchasing, collecting, caring, and loving brushes, I've listed down my favorite shampoos and washes that I use to clean my brushes. Yep, good ol' shampoos and soaps are the way to go to get their brushes at their cleanest, better-than-when-purchased state. I know it takes time to wash brushes, but later on, your skin would be thankful for it.

Baby Products

Baby shampoos are the best and mildest and highly recommended sudsers for washing the brushes. They're gentle on baby so they're gentle on your tools. Bobbi Brown artists use baby shampoo to clean their brushes and so does telenovela queen Thalia (Thalia swears by Johnson's Baby Shampoo to clean her brushes). They rinse easily without leaving any chemicals behind. Plus there are no strong fragrances to irritate the senses. I like using baby baths too to cleanse brushes if I want variety.

Regular Shampoos

Whatever I use for my hair, I use for my brushes as well, and hey, they work! These shampoos leave the hair on my head so soft and so do the brush bristles. I use a variety of brands, depending on which I'm using on the shower. I have Pantene and Sunsilk on stock now and I get to use them a lot. I love how they make my brushes feel soft on the skin after, even without hair conditioner. For me, their scents last longer, so I get the bonus of having sweet-smelling brushes too. I've also used the organic shampoo kinds and they work quite well. The thinking is, since the brushes are made of hair, we need shampoo to clean them, and I thought I'd make those for my use do double duty too.

Body washes
My influx of Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body Works shower creams and gels extended my use for them in the brush-cleaning department. VS Love Spell smells like gummy bears, and it gets pretty much a lot of good reviews too. The Dove fresh moisture has a fresh scent that lingers in my foundation brushes and kabuki brushes, and it knows how to get the gunk out. I like my brushes smelling good. Therapeutic, really.

Dishwashing liquid

This I use solely for brushes that I use for concealers, lipsticks, and foundation brushes. It was quite unusual when I first heard from makeup artist friends of mine that they use Joy dishwashing liquid to clean their brushes at first. This works best for synthetic brushes used to apply cream and liquid products, since they're more oily than powder ones. Lipsticks are waxy and oily too, so we need a powerful agent that cuts through grease, hence Joy became my choice for pre-washing my lip brushes and flat foundation and concealer brushes. If the ads claim it could leave the greasiest pots and pans squeaky clean, it definitely did for brushes. Since it's drying, I recommend putting lotion on the hands after cleaning the brushes. :)

Eye Makeup Remover.

I know it's a bit expensive, but since Clinique Eye Makeup Remover got my eye makeup, mascara included out quite quickly, I had to test it on my brush to see if it performs just as well without destroying them. I use just a tad if I want to remove makeup off my angled brush, a small amount on a cotton pad or tissue, especially if it's would-not-budge waterproof gel liner or Fluidline. Since this is oil-based, I need an extra washing of Joy (to remove the oil) then shampoo for this, but it definitely does the job if I want my liner brush to be clean and gunk-free.