12 More Days Until Christmas!

Hi everybody,<br /><br />Christmas is coming and I am having a HUGE writer's block! This is unbelievable: for the whole month of November, I did not even have a single writing hiccup. Now, I am staring at the screen and wondering what I should write. Since I have nothing to say except all is well, let me post a picture:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpE3mzoF71487XMgzYn0OA4NYRovOLzyCcBj-m6kGkkc20nNLWhq_cjJLYkif0fv-ZXzrasknFvWN1xRyhXCkM-mp9t7p818iYXLUiC9tQoePIDQdNW9VvSBQpgnbK1L2VCq7P4cxff-Kh/s1600/IMG_3652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpE3mzoF71487XMgzYn0OA4NYRovOLzyCcBj-m6kGkkc20nNLWhq_cjJLYkif0fv-ZXzrasknFvWN1xRyhXCkM-mp9t7p818iYXLUiC9tQoePIDQdNW9VvSBQpgnbK1L2VCq7P4cxff-Kh/s400/IMG_3652.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Belly's early Christmas gift from Animal Planet<br />It took a lot of coaxing and catnip for him to accept the pet bed as his</td></tr></tbody></table>If you wonder how big Belly is, that is a 22-inch pet bed. A dog is supposed to fit in it but a stretched out Belly has his head hanging out of the ledge. He does enjoy the pet bed, though, but once in a while, he would hop on my bed and doesn't want to let go.<br /><br />That's all for today. I will be back with a real review and stuff soon. And by "soon", I mean tomorrow ;)<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!

12 More Days Until Christmas!

Hi everybody, Christmas is coming and I am having a HUGE writer's block! This is unbelievable: for the whole month of November, I did no...

Read more »

A Super-Duper Easy FOTD

Hi everybody,<br /><br />Thanked to NaNoWriMo, I didn't do so many FOTDs last month. As a result, the skin on my face seems to improve. In this FOTD, I didn't even wear foundation. For this look, I basically threw in a whole bunch of things just to make myself look more decent before heading out of the house.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpjxbShWrmkeb4YLMoSoKW18cXedEV9LKr6DNtDyLk25zqB3U5BWEqs7AYc1-OPYIqTh3-9LFDV6ObAcgb2ikfBx0eZu0Y6yzQyIz_vtNVUv7R1ifoGyk9Q1oLUW8KVhFx-1GKnejacrt/s1600/IMG_3309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpjxbShWrmkeb4YLMoSoKW18cXedEV9LKr6DNtDyLk25zqB3U5BWEqs7AYc1-OPYIqTh3-9LFDV6ObAcgb2ikfBx0eZu0Y6yzQyIz_vtNVUv7R1ifoGyk9Q1oLUW8KVhFx-1GKnejacrt/s640/IMG_3309.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super-duper FOTD, sans foundation</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><b> What I used:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmbFuTVjx0GyU3YrO46BSkWmJwhFIBg9-cDOSR6q8pBXFBF5dMnfC7NCGXSfp6sbFRDJe5ulODT2xSUvN2UTdfG08GDIMjbEijRKvJ5E2jQBkmi-z8t5X7BEMCn-H-7t-NhPBg-E_IUR2/s1600/IMG_3312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmbFuTVjx0GyU3YrO46BSkWmJwhFIBg9-cDOSR6q8pBXFBF5dMnfC7NCGXSfp6sbFRDJe5ulODT2xSUvN2UTdfG08GDIMjbEijRKvJ5E2jQBkmi-z8t5X7BEMCn-H-7t-NhPBg-E_IUR2/s400/IMG_3312.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MAC Sugar Trance lip gloss, NYC Blue Rose lipstick, MAC Blacktrack eyeliner, Shu Uemura blush, Stila "It Girl" palette (I only use Kitten), Wet n Wild Snow Sprite palette (blend the middle blue, green, and dark green together)<br />Brushes: MAC 217 brush, Coastal Scents eyeliner brush<br />Not shown: mascara, blush brush</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>How to create this look</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcTsIkgl17HVZWfp7w9galn0A9ULcmkvYZY2WLae7nouLgoB_RWWaEERiiWerjVgEBArvvpYvAcxKfVZIOwBJ8lh8p_cXVzCAc8v4acc65pQNco0GhLUg4-XrUwy3gAbTo8xd1yM2MuPN/s1600/IMG_3314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcTsIkgl17HVZWfp7w9galn0A9ULcmkvYZY2WLae7nouLgoB_RWWaEERiiWerjVgEBArvvpYvAcxKfVZIOwBJ8lh8p_cXVzCAc8v4acc65pQNco0GhLUg4-XrUwy3gAbTo8xd1yM2MuPN/s400/IMG_3314.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apply Kitten to all over the the eye with MAC 217, using a light hand<br />Then, mix the blue and greens together and apply it to the eyelid as a soft wash</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcovWFgewAqRiZfokmnIXuCk9Awh-R6Op8cLqmwklX0ilZhJQ4hfF0a6340aiDurAKNIOJQEujd_WPZq2gEbkkoGbC8Cac2FwQEb8enrtik7x-p80uyM6pUD1KH81ZiCnQmIizhnjelaLE/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcovWFgewAqRiZfokmnIXuCk9Awh-R6Op8cLqmwklX0ilZhJQ4hfF0a6340aiDurAKNIOJQEujd_WPZq2gEbkkoGbC8Cac2FwQEb8enrtik7x-p80uyM6pUD1KH81ZiCnQmIizhnjelaLE/s400/IMG_3315.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Line your eyes with Blacktrack, using the synthetic eyeliner brush</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqq4oOgJiDMq_MuPSQQDH2H0d5CV941sY0ExFqLL0Wl9I3sIxpENGo8UzOGEZG6KiR4MjRe3zH0SqNyUhom2hWX0sc2Cdp1Ezoa-0nbhH3ZEEyeApMHJ4Z5zgTHXZIYdnAsL8z1Ok54M89/s1600/IMG_3304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqq4oOgJiDMq_MuPSQQDH2H0d5CV941sY0ExFqLL0Wl9I3sIxpENGo8UzOGEZG6KiR4MjRe3zH0SqNyUhom2hWX0sc2Cdp1Ezoa-0nbhH3ZEEyeApMHJ4Z5zgTHXZIYdnAsL8z1Ok54M89/s640/IMG_3304.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apply blush to your cheeks, then layer lip gloss on top of the lipstick<br />The final touch? Mascara!</td></tr></tbody></table>I have to admit, not having to apply foundation does save a lot of time. However, if I had to do it all over again, I would apply powder to nix the shine. This whole look is so simple, I would get out of the door in 5 minutes, which gave me more time to write.<br /><br />That's all for now. This does not qualify as a FOTD. It's more of a sub-FOTD. I promise to do a real FOTD next week.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!

A Super-Duper Easy FOTD

Hi everybody, Thanked to NaNoWriMo, I didn't do so many FOTDs last month. As a result, the skin on my face seems to improve. In this FOT...

Read more »

I Got Shisem Mild&Smooth Touch False Eyelashes

Hi everyone,<br /><br />This year, I've got an opportunity to try out Shisem Mild&Smooth Touch false eyelashes. Sooji and <a href="http://www.julujewelry.com/">Stephanie</a> gave me a grand total of three pairs of Shisem falsies to try as they know how fond I am of false lashes. Shisem is a Korean brand that makes awesome false eyelashes. The only caveat is this brand is hard to find online, unless you know someone who knows someone who can give you a hookup. Or you live in a place that sells Korean makeup. Yes, it is quite insane for those who do not live in an Asian community to get a pair of Shisem. However, many Asian beauty bloggers have had high regards on this brand and I have to say, they are right.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5q6DgrXHM5gPr-_6aNa3x1IoQBOoC0unUCOw31XcEoKNc7GsV_ZMpl1piiUB5cvzchyphenhyphen_W0qDs9jj-861cDQyy34qUbgLgBf7PZ-b6NP4mTmdNR8jdXi14h7KvcBuTgps_bke0F3Kqc0L/s1600/IMG_2918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5q6DgrXHM5gPr-_6aNa3x1IoQBOoC0unUCOw31XcEoKNc7GsV_ZMpl1piiUB5cvzchyphenhyphen_W0qDs9jj-861cDQyy34qUbgLgBf7PZ-b6NP4mTmdNR8jdXi14h7KvcBuTgps_bke0F3Kqc0L/s640/IMG_2918.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My three pairs of Shisem<br />The first and second pair from the top were gifts from Sooji, the last pair I received from Stephanie</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQg9V8-WazFHn37H3g4aT8fmMsSp6OKO2tE3AYd1VkT-uvrqklIHmR2X2b2C2YkWdrP-29aKNvHx_ARDApOvr2QCo4mC7-_IPMSqpxB3BP5eyGqmcyHyIwxEh8SkXnb7cZn4Chv2lMm2I/s1600/IMG_2922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQg9V8-WazFHn37H3g4aT8fmMsSp6OKO2tE3AYd1VkT-uvrqklIHmR2X2b2C2YkWdrP-29aKNvHx_ARDApOvr2QCo4mC7-_IPMSqpxB3BP5eyGqmcyHyIwxEh8SkXnb7cZn4Chv2lMm2I/s400/IMG_2922.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This pair reminds me of something from MAC. It is very dramatic!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF56yNYAArM9lYsKOjxmMfPpCkLmfMhsujX-PHhP3OTfo9k7WxxG_sExhunsL5elBCXqQQcWw8oJg1rj8yKaZ5pmY4Jujzqtoiw_iV058pNqwF8RCPjwp9e79UwB9rRce2IvYF5ZdHV96/s1600/IMG_2923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF56yNYAArM9lYsKOjxmMfPpCkLmfMhsujX-PHhP3OTfo9k7WxxG_sExhunsL5elBCXqQQcWw8oJg1rj8yKaZ5pmY4Jujzqtoiw_iV058pNqwF8RCPjwp9e79UwB9rRce2IvYF5ZdHV96/s400/IMG_2923.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This set has 2 pairs of demi-lashes. I love them! They are so easy to apply and give me the doe eye look.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYaRxxKtf37fx7v1IMrGyi90lS5wzzhDfaLHpe97UrxB0_ZLE3SJ9Nz6avkPEbBGbVGdETe_TyabFp65-V_yvWi_sUXjAlczbBgFZpYfzhyjsVmkPoRABW9uG36xBCAzyhACMxHcBewWz/s1600/IMG_2925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYaRxxKtf37fx7v1IMrGyi90lS5wzzhDfaLHpe97UrxB0_ZLE3SJ9Nz6avkPEbBGbVGdETe_TyabFp65-V_yvWi_sUXjAlczbBgFZpYfzhyjsVmkPoRABW9uG36xBCAzyhACMxHcBewWz/s400/IMG_2925.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This pair is the regular criss-cross design, which gives a more believable look.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzD1wvp0rJtXV-ajyipvZ5654Wh7OQffLLl2ZThHXhPpsgHRFqvos8zDhH4k1i38Xqqcto49ltoMbdxhTqFVhoy2TpBLL8hlCm5pO1q0N8y7tfJ2KWyeHx32SoDHCKIDL3sVZIu__xP8OU/s1600/IMG_2927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzD1wvp0rJtXV-ajyipvZ5654Wh7OQffLLl2ZThHXhPpsgHRFqvos8zDhH4k1i38Xqqcto49ltoMbdxhTqFVhoy2TpBLL8hlCm5pO1q0N8y7tfJ2KWyeHx32SoDHCKIDL3sVZIu__xP8OU/s400/IMG_2927.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The instruction in Korean.<br />Can somebody translate it for me, please?</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9srs-VIyn-_D53D10XpbLN__iXoCSTXSSyvQR9g7pM3plJlyrAEothYwwwaI2XUza1NN-CPW7s1u-OiC0hs_3SZpNS1EAUXKf47U0NucE7EnGzHFCxS_Qq_4j80E-gl4Mc1Szb9Eyle8/s1600/IMG_2928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9srs-VIyn-_D53D10XpbLN__iXoCSTXSSyvQR9g7pM3plJlyrAEothYwwwaI2XUza1NN-CPW7s1u-OiC0hs_3SZpNS1EAUXKf47U0NucE7EnGzHFCxS_Qq_4j80E-gl4Mc1Szb9Eyle8/s400/IMG_2928.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In each set of lashes, there are two small tubes of glue. I have no idea what they are, either. Can someone translate them for me, please?</td></tr></tbody></table>These false lashes from Shisem are easy to apply. Since the spines are thin, I hardly feel anything. Of the three pairs, the demi-lashes are the easiest to apply and they blend in with my real lashes very well. I love the cute pink packaging and how they stack nicely on top of each other. If you see Shisem in your zipcode, get them! They are fun and fabulous false lashes.<br /><br />How about you? Have you tried Shisem lashes before?<br /><br />Disclaimer: I received the products as gifts from friends.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!

I Got Shisem Mild&Smooth Touch False Eyelashes

Hi everyone, This year, I've got an opportunity to try out Shisem Mild&Smooth Touch false eyelashes. Sooji and Stephanie  gave me a ...

Read more »

Batiste, the Magical Dry Shampoo

Hi everybody,<br /><br />Once in a while, I discover a product that makes me want to say, "Why didn't I find it earlier?" <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/dry-shampoo/SBS-381226,default,pd.html">Batiste dry shampoo</a> is one of them. I wish I found it back when I had really long hair. It could have saved me from looking like an oily grease during the summer. You see, I have oily scalp. While the rest of my hair is clean, my scalp just looks like I need a vigorous wash. For the life of me, I can't wash my hair everyday. Not only my scalp is oily, it is also sensitive.<br /><br />But now that I have Batiste in my life, things changed for the better. My hair no longer looks greasy after the first day, as long as I remember to use Batiste.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTzq_t_xzM3fBe6v8ZYo7L1gMnJIJMCKCXXY70K_klWQAG_DIeA4cl10NaaIIflaqE6Y-DUFjG86HD9fWoLNuoPhIn8dVJXfKvT-kis4oABOCHrdIC3Ry9JRyWZhGTpRFM2TiIeuLYkdn/s1600/IMG_3059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTzq_t_xzM3fBe6v8ZYo7L1gMnJIJMCKCXXY70K_klWQAG_DIeA4cl10NaaIIflaqE6Y-DUFjG86HD9fWoLNuoPhIn8dVJXfKvT-kis4oABOCHrdIC3Ry9JRyWZhGTpRFM2TiIeuLYkdn/s640/IMG_3059.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Batiste dry shampoo, original scent.<br />This is the travel size ($2.99), the full size costs $7.49 ($6.99 if you have Sally Card.)</td></tr></tbody></table>Wanna know why I like this shampoo so much? Jump!<br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSorf-wgXfKSSTPLtZ2abmuOh3oDmcAl-gJ5s-uWfKFgaO1scmgVHzWT8cakyfaTBMRNh72EmeLKeRZP6BdBART7RKe8AIplecCi34Z9oWP8kt3PvuDOjMG_R5IUTjAyBkp7h3SeIIo9cp/s1600/IMG_3035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSorf-wgXfKSSTPLtZ2abmuOh3oDmcAl-gJ5s-uWfKFgaO1scmgVHzWT8cakyfaTBMRNh72EmeLKeRZP6BdBART7RKe8AIplecCi34Z9oWP8kt3PvuDOjMG_R5IUTjAyBkp7h3SeIIo9cp/s400/IMG_3035.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the "Before" picture<br />Notice how greasy my bang looks</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MlZWZMM2sesvs0mwUk5PS-TVKgLRvMxC2WHbO_5ZtT0sek-FYW4DkpCMMytbADSzDXX3Y6WeFBwJ3VAfCfcFYSAQ4m1FPZReGEvvbBe-hNHr8w_FGf7TJO-UVf9mD-bQq4HHpMHb7Oxc/s1600/IMG_3056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MlZWZMM2sesvs0mwUk5PS-TVKgLRvMxC2WHbO_5ZtT0sek-FYW4DkpCMMytbADSzDXX3Y6WeFBwJ3VAfCfcFYSAQ4m1FPZReGEvvbBe-hNHr8w_FGf7TJO-UVf9mD-bQq4HHpMHb7Oxc/s400/IMG_3056.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After I sprayed some Batiste on my hair. Tada!</td></tr></tbody></table>See, it works! Not only the original Batiste does not smell bad, it works like a charm. After shaking the can, I spray it all over my head. A fine mist of corn starch and alcohol is propelled from the can by butane and isobutane. Then, I rub the corn starch to my hair, leave it for a couple of minutes, and brush it off using a natural boar bristle brush. The hair looks somewhat dull but it feels and smells clean. I notice a tiny bit of volume on my hair.<br /><br />After I finished the travel size can of Batiste, I bought a full size can in Blush. It smells more powdery while the original version just smells fresh. Batiste also has another fragrance called Tropical but I didn't see it at Sally. Batiste has been around for a while now and its this price, I'd say it is a good and reliable product.<br /><br />Disclaimer: I purchased this product for my personal use.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!

Batiste, the Magical Dry Shampoo

Hi everybody, Once in a while, I discover a product that makes me want to say, "Why didn't I find it earlier?" Batiste dry sha...

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Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo

Hi everyone,<br /><br />A long time ago, I went on a vacation and stayed at a hotel that provided Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo. Since I didn't pack my own shampoo, I used it and as a result, my hair was squeaky clean for the whole week I was there. The stuff smelled strange and my hair was dry. Needless to say, I quickly forgot about it.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6rwUhtMzeMc10RSCT0CNJ4tB1CRv-dodNByqKe867onc2gUGF4raSr1dQvpAyR0-neu0lIIBwCGIdAkD2gqna6nbOWT5STKNdDhOmEnpU8whvdU23Nk23oMAlrAVROWN_LVBH_HpVXZQ/s1600/neutrogena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6rwUhtMzeMc10RSCT0CNJ4tB1CRv-dodNByqKe867onc2gUGF4raSr1dQvpAyR0-neu0lIIBwCGIdAkD2gqna6nbOWT5STKNdDhOmEnpU8whvdU23Nk23oMAlrAVROWN_LVBH_HpVXZQ/s320/neutrogena.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.neutrogena.com/product/hair/anti-residue/anti-residue+shampoo.do">Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo</a> ($6-8 USD)<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Anti-ResiDue-Shampoo-Ounce-Pack/dp/B000OLE7WW">Picture source</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The reason this product is flying so low under the radar is the packaging. Neutrogena does have a minimalist approach when it comes to packaging their products. This anti-residue shampoo is clear and stored in a clear bottle. To me, the packaging is between cheap and something Steve Jobs would approve for the next iPhone. It's a toss up. However, this shampoo is very thick and you only need a tiny bit to wash your hair. Recently, I brought it back in <a href="http://mymakeupblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/tips-for-your-winter-hair.html">this post</a> to as a remedy to remove flake caused by styling product build-up. Why did I have such a sudden change of heart?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Wanna know why? Jump!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><a name="more"></a><br /><br />Because Neutrogena changed the formula, baby!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Let's see:<br /><blockquote>Ingredients in old formula (from <a href="http://www.neutrogena.com/product/hair/anti-residue/anti-residue+shampoo.do">Neutrogena website</a>):<br />Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Citric Acid, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance</blockquote><blockquote>Ingredients in new formula (from <a href="http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/neutrogena-the-anti-residue-shampoo/ID=prod9061-product">Walgreens website</a>):<br />Water , Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate , Cocamide DEA , Cocamidopropyl Betaine , Glycerin , Imidazolidinyl Urea , Methylparaben , Propylparaben , Citric Acid , Fragrance</blockquote>The new product has a nicer floral smell that's similar to the yellow Neutrogena face wash. It does not contain SLS anymore. However, it is not 100% sulfate-free since Neutrogena switched to a ammonium lauryl sulfate, a somewhat gentler surfactant than SLS. Cocamide DEA is a sudsing agent that I can live without while cocamidopropyl betaine is a medium-strength surfactant that does not irritate skin. Both of them are derived from coconut oil, by the way. Glycerin was added in the formula as a moisturizing agent.<br /><br />Compared to the old formula, the new formula contains more preservative ingredients: imidazolidinyl urea, methylparaben, propylparaben, and maybe citric acid (although I think it's there to lower the pH to a more neutral range.)<br /><br />Does it work as an anti-residue shampoo? Neutrogena claimed it would remove up to 95% of the build-up. While I can't measure, my scalp does feel a lot cleaner. However, I have to use a heavy-duty conditioner to keep my hair from feeling like straws. You win some, you lose some. This is definitely not a win-win situation. However, since you only need to use it once in a while to remove the residue, this is acceptable. Once in a while, deep clean your hair and then go back to your regular shampoo is something I can live with.<br /><br />What do you think? Have you bought this product before? Do you deep clean your hair once in a while? Please let me know in the comment section, ok?<br /><br />Disclaimer: this product was provided for PR purposes. The opinions in this review, however, are mine and they are best to my experience and knowledge.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo

Hi everyone, A long time ago, I went on a vacation and stayed at a hotel that provided Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo. Since I didn't p...

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Tips for Your Winter Hair

Hi everybody,<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5C08cHQdZ719McvDmrBx63dwbXPl6GEliaijBm7-MNwHX-rTJ5Ju2OXGGnQHiXjJkFZfv14-uVd54yT7sZWkQoAQfhCMEf-KS_iPCBfEtqTfKbGwj2ru4k5_OQ3yIe35CgQBme0as0Pq/s1600/IMG_3556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5C08cHQdZ719McvDmrBx63dwbXPl6GEliaijBm7-MNwHX-rTJ5Ju2OXGGnQHiXjJkFZfv14-uVd54yT7sZWkQoAQfhCMEf-KS_iPCBfEtqTfKbGwj2ru4k5_OQ3yIe35CgQBme0as0Pq/s640/IMG_3556.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Belly has a confession: he has dry fur</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The weather is getting colder and it only means one thing: our hair are suffering! Dull looking, dry and brittle hair with flaky scalp sound familiar to you? Until last year, I did not experience much of the winter hair woe. However, this year I get smarter and become more prepared for the winter.<br /><br />In today's post, I compile a short list of tips to keep your hair healthy and shiny during winter. Some of the tips have instantaneousness results while others take time to show.<br /><br /><b>1. Give yourself a scalp massage</b><br /><br />Until last year, I did not know that dry scalp could happen to me. The sub-zero temperature means less moisture in the air. As a result, my scalp was flaky and itchy. The relief came in a quick scalp massage when I went to get a haircut. The hairstylist rubbed a few drops of oil on my scalp before giving me a vigorous scalp massage. Not only did it feel good, the oil helped adding moisture while the massage stimulated blood flow to my scalp.<br /><br />A scalp massage is easy to do at home. Olive, jojoba, and coconut oils are moisturizing, penetrative, and light, which are suitable to be used on your hair and scalp. After adding a few drops to the part on your hair, use the fingertips to rub the oil into your scalp. Just move your fingertips in circles as your hands move from the center to the sides and front to back. After you are done massaging, brush your hair with a natural bristle hairbrush and shampoo your hair as usual.<br /><br /><b>2. Got oil? Give your hair a hot oil treatment</b><br /><br />Don't waste your money on hot oil treatment products. The oil you use for a scalp massage can be used for this purpose as well. All you need to do is to pour olive, jojoba, or coconut oil in a container, lid it, and put it in a cup of hot water to heat the oil up. If you have short hair, about 2-3 tablespoons of oil is enough. If you have long hair, please heat up 1/4 cup of oil.<br /><br />After the oil is heated, spread it all over your hair and scalp. You can do a scalp massage while you are at it before wrapping your hair in a plastic processing cap. If you need extra moisturizing power, soak a towel in warm water and cover your head and the processing cap with it. Then, wrap a dry towel on top of the wet one and wait 15-20 minutes for the oil to work its magic on your hair and scalp. Shampoo as usual and use conditioner if necessary. I find my hair to be very bouncy and lustrous afterwards.<br /><br />Wanna read more tips? Jump!<br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><b>3. Clarifying shampoo: the arch-nemesis of flakes caused by hair product build-up</b><br /><br />Before you bust out that bottle of dandruff shampoo, make sure the flakes are not dandruff. After doing a scalp massage with oil and you still see flakes, you may need to use a clarifying shampoo to remove the build-up caused by hair products. The Neutrogena Anti-Residue shampoo is a classic product that will make your hair and scalp squeaky clean. However, if you don't have it available, just mix your shampoo with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda before washing your hair.<br /><br /><b>4. Take fish oil</b><br /><br />Two years ago, I took fish oil on a daily basis and saw the result after three months of constant using. Not only did my skin behaved better, my hair also had an unbelievable shine. It does take time to notice the difference but once the omega fatty acids in the fish oil work their magic, your hair will be stronger. During that time, my hair was still long and I noticed less breakage during winter.<br /><br /><b>5. Go dark</b><br /><br />While lighter hair colors look fun during summer, they can make you look dull and haggard during winter. If you lighten your hair, the indoor fluorescent light is not your friend during the winter months. It makes your hair look dull and tired. If your hair is dry, it even emphasizes the dryness further. However, the fix is really simple: all you need to do is dye your hair darker. A rich chocolate shade actually hides the flaws your hair have while does not hurt your hair as much since it does not involve a lot of lifting agent in the formula.<br /><br /><b>6. A is for argan oil</b><br /><br />This nut oil from Morocco has been the it oil at the moment. Like coconut, olive, and jojoba oil, argan oil is light and penetrative to your hair. What makes it even better is how argan oil adds shine to your hair without making it look greasy. While there are many products out there claiming to have argan oil, I highly advocate using pure argan oil since it is undiluted and does not contain methicones, which can clog pores. Pure argan oil can be found in some health food stores and online. Compared to the fancy hair products, it is actually quite affordable. I've seen places selling it at $8/oz.<br /><br />These are the hair tips I have for a fabulous winter hair. I hope you will have lustrous and shiny hair during this winter. Flaky, itchy scalp and dull hair can be the thing in the past.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!

Tips for Your Winter Hair

Hi everybody, Belly has a confession: he has dry fur The weather is getting colder and it only means one thing: our hair are suffering! Dull...

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A Year of Mascara: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly

Hi everybody,<br /><br />Last night, I went through my makeup inventory and realized I still haven't thrown a lot of my old mascaras out. I know, scary! But please don't yell at me. Let me explain, ok? Usually, a mascara lasts for about 3 months before I throw it to the pile that one day I will put on the big recycle bin. So far, I haven't emptied the pile yet, which gives me a chance to do a mass review on all the mascaras I've used this year.<br /><br />How many of them have I used? 12! You see, by not throwing away stuff, I know what I have been using.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEHGjxZvN57v4thKRr9sWO6vjABXK65-UclHimKd9jzsS0O2XggGpNIrBp7bPWjxFO82DsPOhfrZVBw0QZVsMPVawUIfhL48NpgVKdrn4NBZ3mwQ_8VzIIKUhiDkoweyQWCeB2Bn3F4JgI/s1600/IMG_3524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEHGjxZvN57v4thKRr9sWO6vjABXK65-UclHimKd9jzsS0O2XggGpNIrBp7bPWjxFO82DsPOhfrZVBw0QZVsMPVawUIfhL48NpgVKdrn4NBZ3mwQ_8VzIIKUhiDkoweyQWCeB2Bn3F4JgI/s400/IMG_3524.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here are the mascaras I've been using in 2010, all 12 of them</td></tr></tbody></table> For those who are wondering if I use a mascara a month, the answer is no. For some weird and unknown reasons, I have 2 or 3 open tubes of mascaras at the same time. Considering most of them are drugstore products, I don't feel too guilty using them. Some of the mascaras I already reviewed while others I have not done so yet. Therefore, this post is a comprehensive review as well as a comparison.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>The Good</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In order to be qualified as "The Good", the mascaras have to (a) volumize, (b) lengthen, and (c) hold the curls of my lashes. Well, none of the mascaras I've tried this year actually meet all of the qualifications. If they meet two out of three, I am happy. Which means I haven't met The One Mascara yet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIwfZ3k7Ff3edbgVKTgzWTTMdJOCAYBC9OuwzI1Zx7IZk97_Hz6dNbjjwvsmzrGYqOHtW-3slLO4aeJWXePIqXcoC3CrVXaiR7WMY4XTfWWLpT38A63qBjQ09w6zFKcuf6W-v_6XVpgRM/s1600/IMG_3535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIwfZ3k7Ff3edbgVKTgzWTTMdJOCAYBC9OuwzI1Zx7IZk97_Hz6dNbjjwvsmzrGYqOHtW-3slLO4aeJWXePIqXcoC3CrVXaiR7WMY4XTfWWLpT38A63qBjQ09w6zFKcuf6W-v_6XVpgRM/s400/IMG_3535.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chubby kids<br />(top-bottom): L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes, Cover Girl LashBlast Fusion, and Rimmel London The Max Volume Lash</td></tr></tbody></table> This year is the year for big mascaras. At the beginning of the year, Rimmel London released <b>The Max Volume Lash</b>. I enjoyed this mascara very much as it almost meets all three categories. It does lengthen, volumize, and hold the curl pretty well. However, the downfall is the wax in the formula. Under the sweltering sun, this mascara will melt.<br /><br /><b>Cover Girl LashBlast Fusion</b> is a let down compared to the <a href="http://mymakeupblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/hit-or-miss-dior-diorshow-mascara.html">original LashBlast</a>. Although it is a lengthening/volumizing hybrid mascara, it manages to do so only when you apply 3 layers of mascara on your lashes. If you go for a natural-looking mascara, this may be a nice product. It also smudges like hell. If I had a chance to do it all over again, I would go for the original LashBlast. It's a bit cheaper and my lashes look a lot bolder.<br /><br /><b>L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes</b> is another flank-out product from the original Voluminous. I will mention about it in a short while so please stay with me. I guess L'Oreal finally realized they did not have a mascara with a no-clump plastic brush in their Voluminous lineup while the rest of the world already have theirs. Hence, it explained the existence of this Million Lashes mascara. Compared to the original, the juice of this one is thinner, the brush is better, and the packaging is bigger. However, this is a <i>lengthening</i> mascara, not a volumizing one. It does a nice job making my lashes look longer. However, since the formula is wet, the lashes clump like none of your business. I would not say this is a let-down since it does not flake or smudge. However, compared to the original Voluminous, this one is pale.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1QSWXCIEQ3Q6ukQdWF3sY6e1at7acVyHIkI6sSFegdsstrtJXaHGqyNjKkrTqkKqp5AwnDzQgWYDr78_9T7zsp4AvrjtehoxKOKwIiVLysDEVfMWfAYZfb2oQZJzt4s4E-bW-n-edo0R/s1600/IMG_3540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1QSWXCIEQ3Q6ukQdWF3sY6e1at7acVyHIkI6sSFegdsstrtJXaHGqyNjKkrTqkKqp5AwnDzQgWYDr78_9T7zsp4AvrjtehoxKOKwIiVLysDEVfMWfAYZfb2oQZJzt4s4E-bW-n-edo0R/s400/IMG_3540.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The thin and original kids<br />(top-bottom): Lancome Definicils, e.l.f Lengthening and Defining, L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black,  and CoverGirl VolumeExact</td></tr></tbody></table> I received the <b>Lancome Definicils</b> as a part of the prize package from <a href="http://www.tummycake.com/">Tammy</a>. It is very comparable to CoverGirl LashBlast Fusion, although I would say the Definicils has an edge since the brush is a lot thinner and smaller. It manages to darken my lashes without making them look too dramatic. Like many other Lancome mascaras, this one smudges like crazy. However, it seems to make my eyes look smokier, not raccoon-ier :)<br /><br />I already reviewed the <b>e.l.f Lengthening and Defining</b> mascara. Still like it, though. Considering the price, this one is a steal. (Review <a href="http://mymakeupblog.blogspot.com/2010/10/can-one-dollar-mascara-beat-diorshow.html">here</a>.)<br /><br /><b>L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black</b> mascara by far is <i>the</i> mascara. I cannot praise it enough and I am surprised I have never done a formal review of this mascara before. If you have wimpy lashes, this one will make them pop like no other. It lengthens and volumizes your lashes to a point they will look like falsies. The downfalls? The messy brush and the heavy formula. You can go up to two coats before your lashes decide they have enough and droop down. Unlike a lot of other mascaras, the non-waterproof Voluminous Carbon Black is quite smudge-proof. If you decide to go with the waterproof version, make sure to have a good eye makeup remover because it is one tough mascara.<br /><br />The last one in the list is <b>Cover Girl VolumeExact</b> mascara. This one is the second time I bought it, which is rare of me. I buy a mascara once, use it, and only buy it again if it is very close to my standard. Well, this one does a much better job than the LashBlast Fusion in making my lashes look more noticeable. However, it does not hold the curl and if you go overboard, your lashes will look clumpy and spiky, despite having the no-clumping plastic brush.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>The Bad</b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkFCLbfhwQqhaZXKmZOi_Y5Ssp9noxtuKCYK9JiL5L9HEKtnQOL-4oenjrKsgf4wEa_O4LDGMwKtlrXz_wi-424fSiSi_xlWe3bl-druMMSCSMz4MfZPWLWNEdTIWSVc2v2pBanyH9PkN/s1600/IMG_3543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkFCLbfhwQqhaZXKmZOi_Y5Ssp9noxtuKCYK9JiL5L9HEKtnQOL-4oenjrKsgf4wEa_O4LDGMwKtlrXz_wi-424fSiSi_xlWe3bl-druMMSCSMz4MfZPWLWNEdTIWSVc2v2pBanyH9PkN/s400/IMG_3543.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(top-bottom): Almay Pure Blends, DiorShow, and Sephora mascaras</td></tr></tbody></table>I spent a dollar on the Almay Pure Blends mascara. The <a href="http://mymakeupblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/hit-or-miss-dior-diorshow-mascara.html">DiorShow</a> and Sephora mascaras I got for free. The former was a prize from Tammy while the later came in the birthday gift set I got as a Sephora Insider.<br /><br />All three of these mascaras have a few things in common: (1) they make my lashes look the same, despite how many coats I piled on, (2) the DiorShow and Sephora ones are expensive, and (3) I will not buy any of them again.<br /><br />Well, the <b>Almay Pure Blends</b> one is already discontinued. Despite the fancy packaging, this is one sad mascara. The juice is quite goopy, the brush is scratchy, and at the end of the day, it smudges and flakes all over my face. For a dollar, it's not worth it. However, this product was originally priced around the $8-9 neighborhood. Unbelievable!<br /><br />The <b>Sephora mascara</b> has a nice oblong shaped brush. If only the brush managed to grab some of the material! It managed to make my already straight lashes look straighter. To the recycle pile it went.<br /><br />For those who have not read my epic <b>DiorShow</b> <s>bashfulness</s> review, <a href="http://mymakeupblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/hit-or-miss-dior-diorshow-mascara.html">click here</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And finally, <b>the downright ugly</b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiw98_XIvmSAbRME7jwhbEqjH_W7tz7NqdEcH3ALEVM_jTqQFx2cWUuqMV9fWjbULG2XFy5honUM7Rt0al0m1YfCwaD5s4AZPc0Z6J9mBySuvEwQuMosCnUh-T4HFmEvHyjGtxNvDTDhbn/s1600/IMG_3545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiw98_XIvmSAbRME7jwhbEqjH_W7tz7NqdEcH3ALEVM_jTqQFx2cWUuqMV9fWjbULG2XFy5honUM7Rt0al0m1YfCwaD5s4AZPc0Z6J9mBySuvEwQuMosCnUh-T4HFmEvHyjGtxNvDTDhbn/s400/IMG_3545.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank God we only have two: NYC Lash Precise Defining Mascara and Physicians Formula Aquawear Mascara</td></tr></tbody></table>For the life of me, I want to get my money back on these two mascaras. The <b>NYC Lash Precise Defining mascara</b> is still on sale, I believe. It has a plastic brush that's very similar to the one in CG VolumeExact. However, it manages to be scratchy. The juice is weak and makes my lashes look non-existence despite my effort of piling layers on top of layers.<br /><br />However, it is not the saddest mascara I've tried this year. The <b>Physicians Formula Aquawear</b> takes the cake on this. Although it is a waterproof mascara, it manages to smudge! Also, the brush is really weird and scratchy. I have used disposable mascara spoolies that apply mascara much better. I am not sure if this product is discontinued or not but it should. This mascara gives other mascaras a bad name.<br /><br />One interesting note: when I first started blogging, I wanted to review a mascara a month. I never got around to do it until now. This is totally unintentional and I still can't believe I've used 12 mascaras this year. The only explanation I have is since I am an Asian, I need mascaras to make my eyes look more noticeable. Also, I have a tendency to use 2 mascaras at the same time and I like to overlap them. Hence, the overload of mascaras.<br /><br />I am just going to throw this out there and pray that it will work: for 2011, I would like to receive more mascaras to review and giveaway to my readers. Mascaras, I need you!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/?action=view&current=endcredit.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y33/shortylam/endcredit.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>P.S: If you like my blog, please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0pt none; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MyMakeupBlog" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">subscribe to my feed.</a> Thanks a lot!

A Year of Mascara: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly

Hi everybody, Last night, I went through my makeup inventory and realized I still haven't thrown a lot of my old mascaras out. I know, s...

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