Behind the Scenes: Interview with Tina Henson

I call her my Electric fan.   Tina has been my muse/model of sorts.  Good Bone structure, check,  lithe and model proportions, check.  It helps too when she always encourages you to do your best and is very easy to please.  Call it mutual admiration, she best epitomises what I look for in a dream client, her words are always ‘ikaw na bahala’ or “its up to you what looks best on me”.  Despite her minimal look of a bare face and a bold lip, she pulls it off very effortlessly.  Her shameless plug interview with me humbles me no end and I thank her for making me her artist of choice.  Below is the light chat we had.

1. For what kind of event(s) did you hire Acie to create your look?

These are some of as far as I can recall. I may have missed one or two since Acie has been doing my make-up and my daughter’s (Marga) from the time she began her career in this field.

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My sister, Sandy’s Wedding (July, 2011) – My make-up, Marga’s, the Bride’s (Sandy’s) and my other sister’s (Nadine’s)
007 Velada Oct 15&16, 2011
My Assumption High School Velada: 25th Anniversary (October 15 & 16, 2011) – My make-up on both days and on the second day, Acie also did the make-up of a group of my HS classmates
020 Belair Pasinaya - May 2013
The Belair Pasinaya – May 2012 – Makeup by Acie
Flores de Mayo, Makati (May 4, 2012) – Make-up of Marga
Flores de Mayo, Makati (May 4, 2012) – Make-up of Marga

2. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?

Acie is very professional with me and my daughter, Marga, even if she is my first cousin. She comes on time, complete with make-up, paraphernalia, assistants, and even pegs. She takes the time to understand what it is exactly that you want by asking questions about the event you’re going to, what you will be wearing, what you want or do not want. I noticed that she also makes the effort to “size up” your personality and she takes this into consideration as well. From there, she’ll incorporate her own touch and the result is always impeccable! She is very passionate with what she does and her expression of eagerness to do your make-up (every single time!) is contagious. These are only some of the many reasons why I wouldn’t have anyone else do my make-up and my daughter’s, but Acie.

A professional shoot. Makeup by Acie Fores.
A professional shoot. Makeup by Acie Fores.

What I like most about Acie’s make-up style is that it always turns out to have that natural look, yet my face is strikingly enhanced in all the right places. For someone who doesn’t really wear make-up on an everyday basis, it makes me feel like I’m still myself. My daughter and I get compliments all the time and the make-up stays the entire duration, even if the event is from morning to evening.

3. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?

Ironically, I don’t wear any make-up on ordinary days. I simply put on my favorite shade of red lipstick by Mac or Chanel. This is how I’ve always done it for decades. In fact, I don’t know how to apply make-up. So, on special occasions when I really need to, I call on Acie to do her magic!

Behind the Veil: Sandy Henson – de Achaval

Sandy Henson - acie fores makeup photo 2

You never forget your first time experiences positive or otherwise, it never ceases to be erased in your memory.  Sandy was my first bride and my first wedding experience as far as my makeup career is concerned, and it was truly memorable and fun.  It’s been 4 years since her wedding and there are 2 additions to her family: 2 adorable female dogs, a Mini Schnauzer named Lexie and a West Highland Terrier Allie.  Here she shares her thoughts about her most important day and her beauty favourites which have become her staples that make her feel confident and ready to face the work world.

1. For what kind of event(s) did you hire Acie to create your look?

My pre-nup shoot and wedding day.

2. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?

It was SO easy with, Acie! She asked me some questions about my style (wedding motif, wedding dress, etc) and what kind of look I preferred. I just told her that I wanted to look clean and fresh (sleepless nights should not show! Haha).   That was it! But then again, I knew from the get go that Acie understood me and I personally loved her style so I was very comfortable and more than happy to let Acie do her magic on me.  It was a joy having Acie part of my special day and will look back at the total experience fondly.

3. Can you share some photos with us of your look by Acie Fores? 

Acie did my prenup makeup.
Acie did my prenup makeup.

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On my wedding day, Acie also made up my bridesmaids.
On my wedding day, Acie also made up my bridesmaids.
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Me and my gown; makeup by Acie.

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4. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?

Some of my recent favorites are:

Lips: MAC lipstick in my usual shade – Dubonnet BB2

Face:

  • Benefit’s POREfessional as my base / primer
  • Benefit’s ERASE paste concealer
  • Make-up Forever Pro Finish Multi-use powder foundation in shade Neutral Honey

Eyes:

  •   Make-up Forever Professional Aqua Eyes – Water proof eye liner pencil (2L /brown shade)

 

 

Odyssey: The 18th Voyage KaKaibang Klase

I was chosen to be a speaker at my alma mater, Assumption College last week to discuss my career as a makeup artist to High School students. I was actually thrilled to be hand-picked from a roster of speakers who I found out later on were also fellow alumnae. I was informed by Mara Diego, Course Facilitator,  that it was a week-long event that exposes the students to the different avenues they can venture into  and serve as a venue for self discovery.  It gives them an opportunity to learn and explore the different skills, talents or interests that were not considered careers before.  This is where I come in.

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It was a trip down memory lane as I walked through the corridors, hallways and the all too familiar excited chatter of students.  I was hoping to bump into familiar teachers and nuns, but it was a day full of endless activity and movement of people crossing each other’s paths.

The campus was definitely changing as new buildings were being added to accommodate the growing number of students and the lack of negative space as a result of this was glaringly noticeable.  Quite a shock for me and I’m looking at it from a perspective of positivity instead of nostalgia.

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On to the talk.  My audience was composed of very attentive and behaved ladies.  I couldn’t believe they were hanging on to every word I said.  The highlight was actually the demo I did on Mara.  My talk revolved around the basics of makeup application and grooming to prepare them for the rigors of college life and to some, their entrance into the big world out there to look for jobs.

 Highlights of the talk

Makeup Artistry is a growing lucrative industry.  Presently it has specific areas in which one can focus their artistry on namely, Print and Editorial, Film and Theater or Stage, Weddings and Bridal and Special Effects.  Nowadays, with a growing list of makeup artist celebrities, it is an art and a skill and one has to be professionally trained and licensed to practice it.  Makeup artists gain an edge and credibility when one is trained technically.

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With advancements in research and technology,  cosmetics are now combined with skincare to fit the needs of a busy woman on the go.  Cosmetics now serve as dual purpose both to give color and enhancement to the face but at the same time, it can give the skin healing and restorative benefits and delay the aging process as an added bonus.

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Social Media has played a huge factor in putting cosmetics and makeup to the forefront and more accessible to the consumer.  It serves as a platform for promotion and instant gratification.  It also builds a community that serves as your audience to communicate with.

Facial Contouring is not for everyday application.  While it gives the face depth and dimension and make you look better in photos, it is not a realistic application due to the skill and time involved for the woman on the go.  Contouring is used for purposes of print media and for spacial occasions.

Kim Kardashian Contour

Eyebrow frames the face and varies from individual to individual.  As Asians, the 3 point rule will apply depending on the width of the nostril and eye shape.  Eyebrows are not symmetrically balanced but it should look similar not exact.

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A smokey eye can be worn during the day provided the application and choice of color is not too dark for day.  Matte neutral shades in earth tones and in the family of plums enhance Asian tones the best.

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Makeup is a continuing learning process.  One can never rest on her laurels, one should strive to be better in the next work.  Learning can be achieved by reading, apprenticing with other masters and constant practice is a must in order to keep up with the trends in the industry.    It should also be considered fun otherwise we lose the main reason why we are in the business.  Passion is what fuels the imagination.  Lastly Be humble.

 

Makeup Artist Perception vs. fact

Weather-Proofing Your Face

In our unpredictable climate here in Manila, you just never know when it’ll rain, when it’ll shine. Admittedly, those times can be frustrating, especially if you’re deciding on what type of makeup to use! Naturally, changes in the weather call for the appropriate cosmetics. And so, I’ve rounded up some “weather proof” picks that can take you from rain to shine (sans the shiny face — no pun intended.)

Essentially, most of the products chosen have to be waterproof, and budge proof in a humid weather like ours.  Creamy textures are key in maintaining the longevity of the makeup wear and easy to apply with your fingers.  At the same time, you want your beauty products to multitask for you when you are in a hurry. Here are some of my recommendations, which should work for any skin type and lifestyle.

weatherproof products

Estee Lauder x Francis Libiran for the Manila Peninsula

Remember my blog post about Estee Lauder and Brian Patterson a few months back? Well, our paths crossed once again and I hope it is the start of a love affair. Love was the theme during the Francis Libiran Bridal Fashion Show at the Weddings at the Peninsula Bridal Fair last June, June being the universal month associated with weddings. The show coincided with the opening of Libiran’s atelier in The Peninsula, so it was the opportune time to promote his 40-piece bridal collection.

Francis Libiran is known for his intricate beadwork and serpentine silhouette. You may drool over his creations here (www.francislibiran.com).

Estee Lauder was tasked to do the makeup services for the 40 models while the Franck Provost team did the hair on all the models. The fashion show marked a sort of “debut” for Estee Lauder as the sponsor of a fashion show, and as such, Estee Lauder skincare and cosmetics were used on the models and celebrities who graced the runway that day. Among the celebrities who modeled the bridal collection were Kim Jones, Iza Calzado,Venus Raj, and Karylle, while Jake Cuenca, Sam Milby, Christian Bautista, among others, modeled the menswear line.

Backstage and behind-the-scenes (where I was), each makeup artist was assigned four models to prep for the show. (I did three male models and a lady.) The photo pegs for the makeup style were clean, fresh, nothing to glam and overdone — right up my alley!

Work Station

We used the star products of the show, which were the skincare essentials: the Double-Wear Foundation,  the Advanced Night Repair, and Matte Primer (which are available in Rustan’s beauty source counters nationwide).

I’d like to show you some snaps of my work on the models assigned to me. What do you think? (Photos below all courtesy of StyleBible.ph and Bruce Casanova)

 

Photo courtesy of Style BiblePH, Bruce Casanova

Photo courtesy of Style Bible.ph, Bruce Casanova

Photo from StyleBible and Bruce Casanova _0051_fl copy 51

Photo courtesy of StyleBible.ph; Bruce Casanova

Photo courtesy of StyleBible.ph, Bruce Casanova

And here’s a few behind-the-scenes shots with my fellow MUAs. Such a fun-filled event!

Estee Lauder and Franck Provost magicians
Estee Lauder and Franck Provost magicians
My seatmates for the day, Moriel and Anina
My seatmates for the day, Moriel and Anina
Who's your caddy? This was mine.
Who’s your caddy? This was mine.

Thank you, Estee Lauder, for including me in your team for Weddings at the Pen! For the complete range of Estee Lauder skincare and cosmetics, visit Estee Lauder counters in Rustan’s Beauty Source outlets nationwide. You can also log on to www.rustans-thebeautysource.com for the complete online catalog.

 

Spotlight on Acie: Acie Fores on Glamourbox Blog

 

When it comes to looking your absolute best, Acie makes it easy. Being a makeup artist is her first love and she remembers her days as a young girl leafing through the pages of Vogue and Glamour, fascinated with a person’s magical transformation through the power of makeup. Her goal is to make every woman’s beauty shine through on the most important day of her life — be it a wedding, graduation, prom, opening of a stage show, or even one’s editorial shoot. As Acie shares, “Every woman is beautiful, it’s simply my job to remind her.”  

Read the full post on Glamourbox’s blog.

Source: Glamourbox Blog
Source: Glamourbox Blog

NARS + Albert Kurniawan Makeup Workshop

There he was, a vision of eye candy if you will.  He began the session by apologising.  He apologised for his lack of command of the English and Tagalog languages, he was, after all, Indonesian.

He warmed my heart.  Sigh…., even if he spoke in Hebrew or Russian, it didn’t matter at all, standing a few feet from me was the man of the hour, Albert Kurniawan, NARS Philippines Chief Makeup Artist.  His talent and work are legendary. Indonesian influence is not a bad thing.  He grew up watching his mother apply makeup and he carried with him an image of a very put together woman who never left the house without her eyes done.

He is the celebrity makeup artist in demand from the likes of Heart Evangelista,  Megan Young, Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, the Bb. Pilipinas Pageant candidates, Georginna Wilson, Toni Gonzaga to name a few — and the list is endless.  He is probably on their speed dial.

What celebrity or model or bride has his hands not touched yet?  Obviously mine.  I still have to wait for a very red carpet event if I want to be under his beauty spell.  I can just hope that one day our paths will cross whether that is on a professional or social  level.

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NARS Philosophy

The place was packed when I arrived and I should’ve left earlier so I could get a good seat.  Sensing it was going to be a well attended workshop, I opted to  stand on the side to get a better view of the demo.  While waiting for a colleague, Pia Reyes, I took a quick look at the NARS boutique to check out their items.

At the heart of the cosmetic line lies the chic modern luxurious simplicity of its look.  Yes simple and luxurious, a contradiction in itself.  Francois Nars the creator of his own brand believes that “There are no rules when it comes to beauty. He says, “Whatever makes you look and feel good is right.”   It’s unmistakable appeal lies in its ability to make the consumer feel like its a guilty caprice, part of a wardrobe staple or a coveted accessory that makes it part of a lifestyle  or simply a state of mind.

Packaging designed by Fabien Baron, reflects Francois Nars’s love of form and function with its black soft casing with his name emblazoned in white.  Fashion and Classic Colors are outrageously pigmented  because it is designed to make the woman express herself creatively and imbibe her own style. Credit belongs to him with the introduction of The Multiple, the original 3-1 multi functional stick that can be applied to the eyes, cheeks and lips, and who can forget the iconic universal blush Orgasm and its spinoffs?  Turkish Delight Lipgloss as famously worn by Kim Kardashian?

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Chic, simple and modern
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Choose your wild!
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Edited Skincare and Beauty routine simplified, the NARS way. Nuance defined

NARSkin

Albert Kurniawan hit the nail on the head when he began stressing the importance of having good skin as a key essential in having makeup look and feel good on the face.  He moisturised the model’s face with the Nars moisturiser and the star of the skincare line is the NARS brightening serum that brightens the skin and dulls the imperfections on the face.  Second to that was the application of the primer as a key element in the longevity of the makeup.  Their skin line prides itself with the use of prime ingredients that are plant derived and maximising its benefits in giving our skin the utmost  nourishment.

With the advent of wholistic living, NARS believes that what we put in our bodies like water, nutrients, antioxidants and supplements should mirror the good things we put in our skin .  What he offers is a condensed skincare line that will cleanse, hydrate, protect, refresh and revitalise in order to keep it  in its tip top shape.  Having good skin is the perfect beauty compliment any woman can have.

 

nars-pro-prime-primer

 

 

Nars Brightening serum

 

Secrets from the Master

  • Put eye drops first on the eyes to brighten the whites of the eyes and clean out any debris.  Eyes look bigger and refreshed.
  • Feel the skin.  Touch the face to see if the face is properly moisturised and prepped for makeup.  It should feel slightly tacky.  You may apply a light application of BB cream prior to the foundation application.
  • Powder the skin lightly after moisturing.  This will give a satin finish to the skin, a perfect canvas for the foundation application.  This step is a no-no in the makeup school, as  we were taught the golden rule that creams over creams and powder after powder.  The logic behind this is the caking of the skin when you begin your makeup.  Albert explained that this step is a foolproof way of making the makeup last longer.  I did try it on myself and it does feel like satin when I applied my foundation after.  Makeup Myth no. 1 debunked.
  • Apply foundation with your hands and not a brush.  Aside from leaving streaks, the warmth of your hands will activate the ingredients of the foundation making the skin look dewy and well, like second skin.  Most NARS liquid and cream products are best applied with the hands as heat activation causes the ingredients in the product to fully sink in the skin.
  • After the application of the foundation, contour the face using the number 3 motion.  Begin at the side of the temple, the hollow of the cheek and ending at the jaw line.  He says never to be afraid if you apply blush more than the usual, from the apples of the cheek just on top of the hollow of the cheek and do not go past the ear.  Blush will disappear quickly once you’ve finished with the makeup.  Apply a highlighter on the high points of the face as a last step.
  • Line the lower lash line with a light green pencil instead of the white or beige colour.  The reason is because in basic colour theory, green counteracts redness and neutralises it.    Genius!!  All along I’ve been applying the beige liner on the waterline to conceal redness.    I really learned something new again.  Another Makeup trick learned.
  • When you apply mascara to the lashes, begin by applying a volumizing formula first.  Wait for it to dry and then apply a waterproof one when you have applied your false lashes.  This guarantees your lashes will be immune to tears and sweat.  I shed a tear as I write this.  Tee hee hee hee
  • Use an eyebrow pencil first to frame the eyebrows.  Brush upwards to soften the harsh edges.  Fill brows with powder.  Whatever is left on the brush, use it at the front of the brow so as not to appear surprised, dense and dark.  Use  a brow gel to tame the brows and apply a highlighter underneath the brow to give it a finished look.
  • Essential products to have are the Multiple stick, mascara, Tinted moisturiser, lipstick, blush and loose powder.  Essential brushes to have are the blush/powder brush, brow brush, a dense eye shadow brush and a blending brush and lip brush.  Concealers are meant to be applied with the fingers hence, no concealer brush.
  • You may pair a bold lip with a bold eye.  Look for balance.

Finished result

 

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Day Look

 

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Nice to see that brilliance also needs a flaw. Sigh.. he forgot to finish the other brow. Evening smoky look. Gorgeous pa rin.

 

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Makeup should have no rules. A vibrant orange lip paired with a smoky eye looks gorgeous.

 

My Takeaways

Aside from the complimentary photos, sample sachets of the primer and serum,  I took away from this workshop a validation of sorts that makeup  should be simple enough but  also fun.   Real and sexy are a state of mind.  Simplicity and luxurious can coexist.

Albert’s seminars are still ongoing,  from 5:30-7:00 pm,  June 20 at the Rustans Alabang Town Center and at Edsa Shangrila on the 27th.  Be early, seats can get taken quickly.

 

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Mothers Day Beauty Session 3 Tina Aragon Bonifacio

Tina Bonifacio

 

This is a very delayed Mothers Day greeting to my aunt, Tina Bonifacio who incidentally had her beauty session with me at the beginning of this year when she attended a nephew’s wedding.  I’m paying tribute to her because in many ways she is literally a second mother to my sister Sarina and I, she also being the sister of my mom.  My Mom had passed since 2006.

To quote the late Maya Angelou, she is a Phenomenal woman.  Her spirituality comes to the forefront to those that know her and even to those that meet her for the first time.  It is this for this reason that her words and actions are genuinely coming from the heart and you know that there is a beautiful soul inside.  We also chose her as one of our wedding sponsors in 1996 mainly because we hold her in the highest esteem and regard.

Growing up even if she had her family to take care of, she always looked out for my mom and us, always with a kind word, a token  or a call to say we were in her thoughts.  Humble and unpretentious, she carries herself with grace, intelligence and warmth, it is almost impossible not to be in your best behaviour when you are with her.  She simply draws that out from you.

Jackie Onassis once said that, “If you bungle up raising your children, whatever else you do well will not matter.”  She has had her trials and successes but one thing that she is most proud of is her children.  Two of her children are pastors, the more visible one is Joey Bonifacio who is the senior pastor at Victory Church in Fort Bonifacio.  Bonifacio in Italian or Portuguese means Good fate,  is this a coincidence?     She also has a son she named Andres.  Cool huh?  Her other children are accomplished in their own right and doing well in their respective fields and careers.

She has nothing more to ask or achieve since she is very content with what life has given her or has to offer her.   Although I don’t get to see her much often now, she is always in our thoughts and good wishes.  A belated Happy Mothers Day to you and know that you are loved and appreciated always.

SkinLux is Deluxe…. Aaaahhhh at last

The past few weeks have put me in overdrive and stress mode with domestic demands of motherhood coupled with the overseeing of the final phase of the construction of our new home .  When Martine De Luna, my friend, told me about a skin pampering morning  experience at a new skin aesthetic center called SKINLUX some weeks back,  I immediately jumped into her invitation.  I really needed one! And oh, my birthday was just the day before so this is a welcome gift so to speak.

Nelly, Who?

Owner Beena Go opened SkinLux Aesthetic and Laser Center when she found a remedy that successfully treated sensitive skin, pigmentation,  and a host of skin problems related to ageing. She claimed the best facial she experienced was in Singapore where she is based.  The facility used Nelly Devuyst products from Belgium which is considered an exclusive skincare line of products that were used by European royalty using the best organic ingredients.  How’s that for pedigree?  Ingredients target specific cell membranes and in turn, obtain measurable results, restoring the skin from the inside out.  It is all natural and organic so very safe and formulated to treat sensitive skin.

Armed with the knowledge and assurance of the compatibility of the line, Miss Go together with her friend, Dr. Anna Nolido opened the centre in Manila whose objective is to provide quality facials combined with the latest in laser technology while catering to the specific needs of the skin type.  The centre also has  other body services as well.  The staff are pleasant, courteous and Singapore trained so expect quality and professional service once you step in.

acie fores at skinlux revlite
Photo from Martine De Luna.

Plush and Lush

Interiors and Rooms are not that clinical or medical looking,  in fact they were so plush, that this is the first dermatology clinic I’ve been to that uses Down Comforter instead of the single bed sheet to keep you warm.  I felt so indulged and pampered already.

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Check out the comforter. A detail I appreciate since I do get cold easily.

 

Skin 101 The Consult

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My skin getting analysed by Skinlux’s in-house Dermatologist. Kirra of Kira’s World and Alex, of The Reluctant Stylist looking on while waiting for their turn. (Photo from Martine De Luna)

 

SkinLux Signature Facial ++++

I was led immediately to the facial room to begin my treatment.  The derma prescribed the signature facial prior to the next procedure that is considered their selling treatment.  Revlite.  I’m not one to gush and ooh and ahh over a facial because I thought they were all the same.  I was mistaken.  The experience was like no other because it included a foot massage, too!  I asked the therapist if this was a standard service in addition to the facial and she replied a foot massage was really included in the signature facial.  This is the +++!  My ear to ear grin melted into a quick slumber and I truly was sold on this!  Book me for the next one, stat!

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Relaxation begins. (Photo from Martine De Luna)
acie fores at skinlux facial
OMG, a double chin waiting to happen. Must look into their facial contouring service. (Photo from Martine De Luna)

 

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After the Signature facial, hydrated and primed for the Revlite

 

Revlite Plus

During the initial consult with the in-house derma, she assessed my skin and she said that my skin texture is great, she concurred that I do have a few patches of dark pigmentation developing in some areas.  Blame it on bad habits in the past, she said that Revlite Plus is the perfect treatment to address this problem.  It is a treatment specifically geared towards the lightening and removal of tattoos and dark pigmentation on the face and body.  Revlite Plus uses laser and IPL photofacial skin rejuvenation that uses short bursts of light that is absorbed by the skin pigments and blood in the vessels.    Added bonus is a skin tightening effect, reduces acne and improves skin resurfacing.  Is this the holy grail I’ve been looking  for in making my dark spots go away for good?

One of my flaws. Ehem, Facial not personality flaw.
One of my flaws. Ehem, Facial not personality flaw.

 

If only it could blast away fat too. The Revlite Plus Laser machine
If only it could blast away fat too. The Revlite Plus Laser machine

 

I see the Light!!!!
I see the Light!!!! (Photo from Martine De Luna)

I admit, I got cold feet when the derma asked me if I wanted to lower the setting.  It felt like a rubber band slapped on your face.  Pain was bearable on a scale of 5, 10 being the highest.  Maybe I was just too sensitive that day so I asked her to lower the setting to a more tolerable level.  It was over in 5 minutes.    That was it, quick, easy and my face was not sore at all.  I was advised to not use any topical creams for the next 3 days but I could wash my face with cold water after a few hours.  Not bad for a first timer.

After the Revlite Plus procedure. Ate Glow ba?

 

A perfect ending to a well spent morning.
A perfect ending to a well spent morning. Fr. L-R, Alex of ReluctantStylists, Kira of Kira’s World and Martine De Luna of Make it Blissful and myself

 

 Great to meet new friends on a morning like this.
Great to meet new friends on a morning like this.

 

One for the road. Miss Go did not let us leave empty handed. Happy Mothers Day indeed to me.
One for the road. Miss Go did not let us leave empty handed. Happy Mothers Day indeed to me.

 

I will definitely be back, you have raised the bar in facial pampering, you have spoiled me no end.  I almost forgot my name.  All other facials will pale in comparison.  Seriously, can Revlite Plus address my abdominal fat soon?  A huge thanks to the staff and Miss Beena Go for the lovely pampering session.

Book your beauty essentials at Skinlux Aesthetic Center, 3rd level of Promenade Greenhills San Juan Metro Manila and may be reached at +632 650 3109.  Your path to beauty starts here.

 

Mothers Day Beauty Session 1 with Peachy Jacob

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This is the last of my May “Mother’s Day” themed posts. A good way to end a good month, I say!

Peachy and I go a long long way back, since the 80’s.  She has  my best friend since high school. Partner in time, crime, lime and dime.  Everything about her is big.  I don’t mean that in a bad way.  Anything that she does, she does in a big way.  Her laughter is so infectious, even if you don’t know what s so funny, you are caught up in her world of happiness.    As best friends, we have had our ups and downs, we went through a lot and it is the bond of friendship that keeps us connected no matter what.

Admittedly, life had taken over and sometimes we are kept in our own world and sometimes drift or lose touch with one another.  As we have gotten older, hopefully wiser, we have taken a vow to always keep in touch.   Mother’s Day was a perfect excuse to see her again.  That morning was a laugh-fest, I couldn’t keep my eyeliner straight on her.

I asked her if she can be my model for my Mother’s day blog series and I’m glad she said yes.  I asked her because I wanted to give her a nice thank you gift.  Recently, she became a single mother to her two boys, but she has managed to see life as half full and not half empty.  What a super trooper.

I can’t even begin to tell you how fortunate I am to be her friend.  She has taught me so many life lessons without her telling me with an attitude of “I-Told-you-so attitude.   She leads by example and she is in no way a saint or perfect.   Life lessons on forgiveness, generosity, living life to the fullest and loving unconditionally are the priceless gifts she has shared with me even if she doesn’t know it.

She works for an insurance firm and is currently in Brazil as a gift for being one of the highest sales top notcher of the firm.  Well deserved my friend!

To my Dancing Queen and now Zumba queen, a big shout out to you and may your tribe increase.  Love you lots.  I want to give you an insight as to how loveable and hilarious Peachy is when she posted her Mothers Day beauty photo on my wall.  Thank you, Speachy!

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You are the monay in my monalisa smile
photo
With Lipstick only

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Mother’s Day Beauty Session 2: Jeanette Chu Gomez

I first met Jeannette in July of 2013, when our family friend Mike Gomez quietly announced to close friends family and relatives that he was engaged to be married. I have known Mike for more than two decades and I have never seen him or heard he was in a relationship with anyone for that matter.

To whom I asked?  I checked out his Facebook page and there she was.  Her photo splashed as his FB profile pic. I thought to myself, it was a photo of a lovely woman randomly selected because of her attractive profile. I’ve seen this in a couple of my friend’s profile photos where random photos of people, a cause, places or things that appeal to the person is used as a FB profile photo.

I was immediately informed that the lovely woman is indeed his fiancé.  We both laughed ourselves silly. So I asked him for how long did he keep this as a secret to everyone?  12 years to be exact.  Huwow!  Indeed it was time to settle down.  Jeannete comes from a family of eight siblings.  They met at the Stock Exchange when Mike was working as a stock broker and she from another firm.  It was love at first sight for him.  As the saying goes, the rest is His-story.

Unfortunately, the wedding coincided with my family vacation (which was also overdue) and, so I could not attend.  I vowed to make it up to them as I was kicking myself in the head for failing to witness this wonderful, humble couple mark their milestone.  As the photos were posted on Facebook, I truly saw the love between the two and I missed a fabulous wedding.

When I finally got a chance to meet Jeannete in her mother in law’s birthday celebration, I boldly asked her if she could model for me some time for my bridal portfolio when the need arises.  She was hesitant and too shy to say yes. Fast forward to May of this year, I finally got a chance to ask her once more if she can model for my Mother’s Day feature on my blog and she said yes.

The good news is, there is a bun in the oven and she is due on May 19th! In fact as I write this, she will be in labor soon.  I can only wish Mike and Jeannete good things and blessings, and parenthood will certainly be the icing on the proverbial cake.

Congratulations and welcome to Parenthood, Jeanete.  Family photo session next?

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