Behind the Scenes – Page 4

Bloggers Day Out: Kage Gozun

Lifestyle and travel bloggers are interesting and engaging people to work with. Insightful, full of humor and they are the best resource for anything and everything. Kage Gozun was one of those people that you feel an easy connection with. I had a chance to give Kage a makeover to fit her active, on the go lifestyle one afternoon at the EDSA Beverage Design Studio.

According to her blog, she is a woman of many talents! She struck me as a multi-passionate creative entrepreneur and freelancer. Aside from having contributed to the web content of GMA Network, she is a co-owner of Brown Belly resort-inspired lifestyle wear and toiletries; she is a Lifestyle brand ambassador of Roxy Philippines; an active member of Sea to Summit Philippines, and an an avid surfer. She is also a lifestyle writer who has contributed to numerous travel publications.

Here is the lowdown on her beauty look.

Skin Analysis

Skin is oily in the T-zone area and normal on the other parts of her face
Dull looking due to stress , dark eyebags

Barefaced and ready for the makeover. Cleansed and Exfoliated!

Skin Prep:

Cleansed skin with Cure Natural Aqua Gel to remove dead skin flakes and impurities.

One Pump and massaged into her skin for 20-30 seconds and see the skin flakes fall off. Rinse with water and follow with your skincare routine.

After Exfoliating the skin, Water treatment Skin Cream was applied to the face as a moisturizer. This is actually used for the hands but I wanted to use this for the face because I wanted a light moisturizer that would not feel heavy on the face.

Eyes and Face

L-R Kryolan Camouflage Concealer wheel and Eve Pearl Invisible Finish Powderless Powder

Makeup Forever Sculpting powder in Shade 2, Makeup Forever Mat Velvet Plus Foundation in 40 and 55, MAC blush in Harmony and Pinch Me, Skindinavia No More shine Finishing spray

MAC Fast Response Eye Cream, MAC eyeshadows in Soft Brown, Wedge, Expresso, Nurturing Force Blot off to mattify face, Benefit Brow ZIng in Medium and Inglot Freedom Palette in 421S and 446

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NjI0WDU1NQ==/z/D1kAAOxyYSdTAW67/$_1.JPG?set_id=880000500F — Urban Decay 24/7 glide on pencil in Zero and Bourbon.

Red-Cherry-Lashes-747S-800x889 — False eyelashes tied her look together. These are lightweight flirty and natural.

Lips

Loreal Barely Greige and MAC Lipglass in Culture

Ready for her night out with her friends.

Follow Kage’s adventures on Instagram @surftolivetosurf and on Twitter @travelkage.

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August 29, 2015

Behind the Scenes Bridal

Behind the Veil: Ida Belonia Jose

Welcome to another installment of Behind the Veil, my interviews with my bridal clients. Today, I want you to meet the lovely Ida Jose. I met Ida through her aunt, Ericka Peña, a client of mine who wanted to give her a gift which was a hair and makeup service for her niece Ida and her entourage. Who would not resist such a generous offer? Below are highlights and photos of her special day.

1. Tell my readers a bit about yourself.

Well… About me, I am an outgoing person. I love to learn new things. I love working with colors but not with my face. I think I am not very good at it. I am very OC (obsessive-compulsive) in a good way, which helped me make our wedding day the most memorable and the happiest day for us. I am currently employed with Auto Nation Group, a dealer of luxury cars, as an Executive Secretary. I love dancing so much and I dabble a little bit in graphic designing.

2. How did you come to work with me as your makeup artist?

It was December of 2011 when I asked my aunt Tita Ericka if she knows of a Hair and makeup artist for our company’s annual christmas dinner. She told me you were the one who did her hair and make-up for an event she attended. I searched for your work on the net which convinced me to have my hair & make-up done by Ms. Acie Fores.

3. How did you like your makeup on your special day?

The first hair & make-up trial really made me feel extra beautiful according to my friends and family. And for our big day, no words can explain how I felt with how I looked. Our guests, asked me who did my hair and makeup and that I looked so radiant. The photo from the ceremony is one of the many shots I love. Even with the veil, people can still see my face especially with that glowing smile.

4. What’s one fond memory you have of your wedding day?

Aside from my hair & make-up, the gown was also magical and contributed to how I felt so special on that day. My gowns for the church and reception were designed by Ellen Clavio-Viray. I would like to thank you for making our wedding day our guests and family will not forget. — Ida

Photos courtesy of Ida Belonia Jose and Reflexion Studios Eugene Pantoja. Hair: Jmar Martinez

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August 21, 2015

Behind the Scenes Tips and Tricks

5 Makeup Trends for Mid-2015

Can you believe that we’ve already hit the half-year mark? That means half a year into the color of the year, which means that it’s time to see what’s going on in the makeup scene, too. We all know that there are trends flying about here and there, and while not everything is a must-do (because makeup is personal and subjective), there are some essentials that are applicable to just about everyone.

So here’s a mid-year look at what’s trending. Which trend are you riding on, and where do you think looks are headed as we head on into the latter half of 2015?

1. Dark lip lusciousness.

The colors for the latter part of the year favor deep, berry-like tones. Think blackberries, dark cherries, plum shades and wine tones. Check out the recommendations of

2. Lip gloss love.

High shine and sleek lips are where it’s at — an homage to all things naturelle. Slightly stained lips and a fresh, understated look were made popular during Fashion Week, by brands like Balmain, whose models were un-dolled up in slightly glossed lips and brushed brows.

3. The reverse smokey eye.

To achieve this look, apply eyeliner the area between the bottom lashes and the eye itself. Boom: instant effortless chic.The blending on the lower lash line can “open up”, even widen your eyes.

vogue 2

4. Blushing cheeks and bronzy skin.

Rosy-toned cheeks look healthy and adorable, and this trend was seen all over the runways in Milan last April. This coupled with a bronzy-though-not-sunbaked look hearkens to warmer months, but are complemented by edgy fall fashions.

5. Smudged mascara & floating eyeliner.

Allure magazine reported this as the “most unexpected makeup trend” for the year, which debuted in Milan on the runway. So, if your mascara wand happens to tap your lash line, leaving lines of smudges: just go with it. It looks edgy, imperfect, and effortlessly chic. Eyeliner, on the other hand, is applied above the fold then gently smudged to create a “floating” effect.

**Floating eyeliner trend .** Source: Cosmo

smudged-eye-makeup-fall-2015 — **Smudged mascara trend.** Source

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July 8, 2015

Behind the Scenes Events

Style Origin 2015 and Inglot Cosmetics Philippines

In collaboration with Ayala Malls, Inglot Cosmetics Philippines, and members of United Makeup Artists of the Philippines were lucky enough to experience working on this fashion show. Here are a few of the models we did.

All Photos except the last one below are from Pilita Guadines.

The Fun group Backstage

IMG_2824_2 — L-R Pilita Guadines, Onin Bolos, Charisma Vergara (President of UMAP0 and Acie Fores

11303453_977411758949677_2071239915_n — With Nathan, in store Makeup artist of Inglot Cosmetics

All Photos from Onin Bolos

11269485_10206738597765911_586763185_n — Look who is sat on Onin’s char! Monika Sta Maria of Asia’s Next Top Model contestant. She was my model during the Francis Libiran Fashion Show last year. Still radiant as ever.

Photos below are from me. Silly me, I forgot to take the rest of the model’s photos except this model here below, Emerald.

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June 27, 2015

Beauty Behind the Scenes Bridal Demos Uncategorized

Inglot Bridal Seminar with Cherry Pacheco

Cherry Pacheco, a senior makeup artist affiliate of Inglot Cosmetics Philippines, recently indulged members of United Makeup Artists of the Philippines with a Bridal Demo at their Glorietta 5 branch. I couldn’t pass this up since I’m always a fan of continuing education and Inglot Cosmetics Philippines is one of the cosmetics brand that I’m beginning to fall in love with. Again, its not a basic demo, you have to come with the understanding of basic makeup application. My love affair began with their most best selling gel liner no. 77. It’s black inky color is unbelievably smooth and creamy and budgeproof. It’s not exactly waterproof but its great for my needs. I also have their nail ridge filler which lives up to its name, it leaves a smooth mantle over the nail preparing it for nail color. I am hooked.

Inglot-AMC-Gel-Eyeliner-77-Black — Inky Black Gel Eyeliner no. 77. Inglot’s best selling item.

Her Tips:

1) Begin with a very clean and smooth canvas. Face should be prepped prior to the application, cleansed, toned, moisturized and primed, according to the skin type of the client or Bride. Inglot’s Under Base Mattifiying base is considered the primer of all gods.

2) Determine the bride’s skin tone and undertones by properly matching 1-2 shades of Foundation on the cheek to the jawline to see which shade matches her face. The right color should blend seamlessly on the face. When skin is acidic, it means that when foundation is applied, your skin color turns dark or gray after a few minutes. This applies to people with oily skin. To counteract this, apply a toner to the face, apply a primer to the face prior to the foundation to act as a barrier between the skin and makeup and choose a foundation that is one shade lighter than your skintone. This way, when your face casts a darker hue, it will match your skin tone perfectly.

The shade that matched the model’s face is the one on the left. It was lighter than her usual shade because she is acidic.

3) Begin applying the foundation with a brush on the upper half of the face until the eyebrows and extending to the lower part of the face where her upper cheekbones begin. The perimeter of the face should be a little darker to give depth and warmth to the face.

Model Xyrene with foundation applied on her face.

Mattifying powder was used and applied with a sponge after foundation was applied.

One of their best selling items their mattifiying powder.

4) Contour and Highlight. When applying depth, highlight and warmth to the skin, Cherry uses powder to achieve this.

Dark powder was applied from the top of the ear and blended towards the center of the face stopping in the lower cheek area. Do not go past the lips.

4) Eyebrows should be properly groomed so placement of color can be applied correctly. Brush the hairs in an upward stroke to see where the hair growth lies and where color should be applied.

Perfectly groomed eyebrows and a face that has depth.

5) Eyeshadow

Her Freedom Palette of choice. Love love the color on the bottom row, 2nd to the left. This is what she applied on the eyelid using her ring finger and blended to perfection.

She blended the eyeshadow and added a darker matte color on the outer crease or V shape to accentuate the eyes.

A lighter shade was applied in the inner corner of the eyes and bottom lashes to make the eyes pop.

6) Eyeliner and Lashes

Brown Waterproof eyeliner was used in the bottom of the lashes vertically and smudged 3/4 of the way.

7) Blush

Peach toned blushes work well with Asian skin tones. You may mix a pink toned blush to give the face more dimension.

Work in circular motions from the apples of the cheeks and blend outwards.

8) Lips

Lip Palette to die for. It is super pigmented a little goes a long way. She used the 2 colors on the bottom row, 2nd to the left and the middle shade and mixed the two to get a peachy pink color.

Lip color should match the undertone and color of the blush to create harmony in the face.

9) Final result:

Before (Xyrene Eugenio is also an Inglot Cosmetics Philippines makeup artist affiliate who gamely became our model for that afternoon)

After. Xyrene is ready to walk down the aisle, the shopping aisle that is.

A promo and discount offer was offered to us artists which made it easier for us to justify our vanity cravings. It is easy to be lost and overwhelmed when you walk into the store but trust the staff to offer their warm assistance in narrowing your choices. Despite the slight frenzy, I was able to make good choices in my attempt to understand their Freedom Palette selling point. Their palettes are all magnetic, colors are easy to put in and talk about portability, everything you need is customized for you when you slip them in those compact holes.

IMG_2607_2 — My custom bridal eyeshadow palette chosen for me.

The only bad point I can think of is that since the creamy pigments like lipsticks and cream concealers melt so quickly in our heat, I end up putting them in the refrigerator to harden them a bit. Colors are named in a series of 3 numbers, I have a difficult time remembering them sometimes. I guess this was deliberately done since this line is a brainchild of a polish Chemist Wojchiek Inglot, who wanted to produce cosmetics that are paraben free and free of those harmful ingredients you find in some cosmetic brands. Chemists work with formulas and numbers hence the number sequence in their branding. As a result, Inglot Cosmetics is 20-30% more affordable than their counterparts. I call it genius, their magnetized palettes are a makeup artist’s dream, they all stack up in your kits. Truly Heaven sent.

Lip Lip Hooray! I seem to want this artwork for myself.

Inglot Cosmetics can be found at Glorietta 5, SM Megamall and Mall of Asia. Follow them on Facebook and InstaGram @InglotPH

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June 23, 2015

Behind the Scenes Maternity Shoot Personal

Patty Laurel Maternity Shoot

As one of the most sought after beauty and lifestyle bloggers in Manila, I finally got to meet Patty Laurel Filart up close. I was struck by her easy going personality and warmth, she really didn’t have any of that diva star air around her. In fact, she had a lovely glow to her, due to her beautiful bun in the oven which is quite very soon. We shared some things in common, we both lived in the same subdivision while growing up and she mentioned that she was a teacher in a pre school located there.

Her idea of the shoot was more of a very casual, organic and natural vibe, I was told by Martine de Luna (who organized this shoot) that she wanted her shoot to look like it stepped out of the Kinfolk Magazine. Enter Jelito De Leon who is one of the best Instagram and Lifestyle photographers who captured the essence of her vibe. It was really up his alley since his photos are so clean and beautifully laid out, just like how she wanted it to be. Double that with the presence of stylist Bea Marquez (and all under the wing of Martine De Luna of Make it Blissful, who brought her adorable baby Krista who happily kept up with us), it was the perfect shoot.

I’d love to share some behind the scenes shots with you, followed by the final set by Jelito de Leon (also featured on Patty’s blog: MakeitBlissfulXJelitoDeLeon.)

Beauty enhancements for Patty

FACE and CHEEKS

RCMA foundation in Shinto 2, and mixed with Makeup Forever HD foundation in shade 127
RCMA contour wheel
MAC blush in PeachyKeen
Makeup Forever contour shade in no 2.
Ben Nye Transparent Loose powder

EYES and BROWS

Face shop eyebrow pencil in no. 2
Viseart matte neutral palette
MAC Blacktrack gel eyeliner
False Lashes by Ardell in 110
Urban Decay eyeliner in Zero

LIPS

Inglot matte lipstick and MAC lipgloss in Oystershine

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June 10, 2015

Behind the Scenes Bridal Interviews Tips and Tricks

Behind the Kit with Marissa Narvaez

I met my good friend, Marissa Narvaez when I lived in Baguio in 2009 and we both share the same interests and passion which is makeup and more makeup. Admitedly, she began to feed this growing need for a more disciplined approach when she enrolled in the Center for the Aesthetic Studies with Jen Delica on a one on one basis and Airbrush makeup with Georginna Desuasido. From there, she saw a demand for makeup artists in the north and her passion turned into a growing craft where she can impound on the importance of beauty in the self esteem of a woman. We both reciprocate and feed our artistry whenever an opportunity arises for an extra pair of magical hands.

She is currently an entrepreneur in her own right as she and her husband are engaged in the pursuit of wellness and pampering, they own Kuwentong Barbero located in SM, a Manila franchise of Nuat Thai Massage along Marcos Highway and a Spa called Mari Spa on Abanao st. She definitely has cornered her own market. She also conducts Personal Beauty workshops to young women in need of beauty enhancement. Here is a glimpse of a woman who lives and breathes beauty.

Q & A:

What inspired you to get into makeup and did you immediately know that’s what you wanted to do?

My mom and my older sister were my inspiration. Since I was a kid, I’ve seen them glammed up and would always play with my mom’s make-up stash. My sister was a professional model in her early years and I was just in awe seeing her putting on make-up. My penchant for using make up started when I was young.

My first job was working for a 5-star chain hotel and I was required to be made-up at all times! It was not a task for me as I was having fun and in fact, I enjoyed helping out my work colleagues with their make-up application.

When I moved to Baguio, I thought of doing professional make-up but I didn’t get to practice until 2008. Yes, I knew immediately that’s what I wanted to do.

Where did you train or are you self-taught?

Since I was based in Baguio and I was working fulltime, I couldn’t take the long courses offered at CAS back in 2008. I took the one-on-one session with Ms. Jen Delica and took me 3 days to learn everything! That was my first formal make- up training session. I took short courses at Maquiallage Professionel, Make-up Designory and Shu Uemura the following years.

Where do you find inspiration?

Mostly from my make up books, magazines, works of my favorite make up artists and Pinterest!

What’s the best advise a fellow professional has ever given you?

Never stop practicing.

How do you think your work has evolved since you first began working professionally?

The make-up industry is like the medical field. There is always new technology invented. You need to be abreast in learning new techniques. I aim to constantly learn from my mentors by attending their workshops and training sessions. My passion for learning was the key element.

Which one product do you wish you could have or create, to make your life easier?

I wish to have TML The Makeup Light right now. I hope Santa will read this…

One product you never leave home without for yourself or your kit?

Lipbalm!

How do you find time to relax?

I have a massage at Mari Spa (Shameless plug here!)

You conduct personal beauty workshops, how did that come about?

My friends convinced me to teach basic make up application and no one in Baguio has done it yet. What is common here are sponsored workshops or training sessions by network marketing companies.

How would you describe your work?

Brides are my favorite. They always have that radiant glow on their big day no matter how stressed they are. With my techniques, my goal is always to bring out their natural beauty.

Describe yourself in one word

Trailblazer.

My Dream Shoot:

Location: The Mansion House, Baguio City

Photographer: Boy Yñiguez

Model: Acie Romero-Salas (!!!)

Stylist: Candy Reyes

Hair: Alee Benson

Marissa’s Makeup Kit

Marissa’s Kikay Kit

Marissa's top 5 1) Kanebo Media Compact Foundation – Medium Coverage but feels so lightweight in the skin. It also give my skin a glow, which is what Japanese products are known for.

2) NARS Schiap Lipstick – This gives my face the color pop I need everyday. Love Love!

3) Lucas pawpaw Ointment – Best all around everything. I use it on my lips and areas on my face that need moisturising.

4) Lancome Hypnose Mascara – My lashes love the curl it gives.

5) NARS Orgasm Lip Gloss – If its good for the Kardashians, its good for me too.

6) OCC Lip Tar – On days I don’t feel like wearing color on my lips, a pin size of this lipstick is all I need to look put together.

7) My Tweezerman tweezers and Shu Uemura Lash Curler – My handy dandy tools for my lashes and eyebrows.

She is a gifted artist, devoted mother and workaholic, she is a woman on the go or should I say woman on the glow? Book her for your beauty needs whenever you are in Baguio and she will make it a pleasurable experience for you. Her expertise is in bridal and glam makeup, she will not disappoint.

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June 2, 2015

Behind the Scenes Demos Events Seminars

Coverderm The Perfect Camouflage

Anyone posting a selfie is fair game for anyone on social media more so, if you are a celebrity or someone famous. Consider the Instagram photos of Miley Cyrus’ dyed armpit hair or Kim Kardashian’s famous gleaming booty that resembles a Krispy Kreme glazed doughnut, is proof that a face or a body part is now a typical form of self expression. Haters and bashers went to town with those ones.

I’m not going to do a self righteous rant but rather share with you how those with skin issues and afraid to post their selfies can be a thing of the past.

Previously, camouflage makeup was relegated to the medical sphere and not readily available, since various skin diseases or imperfections like birthmarks, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, burns, moles, couperose, vitiligo, age and sun spots, pigmentation, freckles and facial redness are considered skin diseases or conditions that needed medical assistance. Now, skincare and cosmetics are intrinsically connected via advances in research and technology that most cosmetics contain healing, restorative and medical benefits which make it accesible to the consumer. Coverderm, formerly Covermark before, was recently launched in Manila by Brady Pharma, its local distributor for everyone to obtain.

Leg Makeup for those with Varicose Veins, stretch marks, tattoos, dark marks, sun spots, phlebitis, scars, burns, moles and bruises.

http://www.skinsentials.com.au/media/catalog/product/cache/4/image/512x512/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/c/o/coverderm-classic-concealing-foundation.jpg — Ultimate skin corrector making skin remain unnoticed.

It was developed by Lydia O Leary, an American chemist who had a birthmark on her face that she wanted to conceal. She wanted to develop a product that had coverage but was light on the face and easy to apply. Her goal was to rid skin imperfections and make ordinary people lead normal lives through makeup, as explained by Rome Maglalang, sales account executive.

What can it do?

Cover Birthmarks and Chicken Pox scars on face (Before)

Actual Demo on our UMAP member, Sydney Dee who is undergoing treatment with her Dermatologist for her severe acne problem. (Before)

Its best applied with a damp sponge and dabbed on the face.

After. Her acne marks were concealed but considering it was still raised, the foundation smoothed out her facial discoloration and hid the redness.

UMAP Members, headed by its president Charisma Vergara, eager to try out the products.

Advantages:

Hypoallergenic

Has SPF 30 and UVA and UVB sun protection

Easily Applied (Click here for more demo videos)

Lightweight, waterproof and sweatproof

24 hour coverage

High coverage

A little goes a long way

Has a lot of global shades

Has a satin like finish.

Disadvantages:

Has to be removed with its waterproof makeup remover cream. It s not really a bad thing but due to its high coverage, soap and water will not easily remove it.

Has a Waxy smell but slowly dissipates.

Not available in palettes.

We were not left empty handed. Beautyfull indeed.

We were given samples of their foundation and makeup remover.

Swatched. L-R, 3A, 5 and 7. My shade is 3A.

Final thoughts on Coverderm.

It’s consistency is really smooth, creamy and lightweight. It does cover skin imperfections really well without the feeling of heaviness. I would compare this to the Kryolan Cream Camouflage and will use this as a concealer if not as a foundation too. Product comes with a spatula, its best to warm it at the back of your hand apply with a concealer or foundation brush, or damp sponge. The packaging of the foundation can be improved by coming out in tubes like their leg makeup counterpart, instead of a jar for portability and convenience. For artists, a palette with global tones can come in handy. However, I would still consider getting this for my kit.

Photoshop just met its match.

Thank you Rome Maglalang and Coverderm for hosting us.

Coverderm is available in select Watson and SM stores and retails between P1700.00-P2000.00.

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May 18, 2015

Behind the Scenes Tips and Tricks

Behind the Kit with Acie Fores

This is a new section of my blog where I’ll be featuring makeup artists. I believe in the adage “community not competition” when it comes to the “cut-throatness” of this industry, that we can all learn from one another as artists and as colleagues. I hope you agree with me! And so, I’ll begin this series with my very own “behind the kit” responses, so that you can get a glimpse of my tools of the trade that enable me to magically transform and enhance anyone.

1. What inspired you to get into makeup and did you immediately know that’s what you wanted to do?

I did not plan my life dreaming about this as a career, but I was always mesmerized with how makeup can enhance a woman’s beauty by observing my mother when I was growing up. The turning point that I decided to go and make it a second career change was when I took up a Basic course at SOFA, and I became part of the hair and makeup team for the fashion show being held for its graduates. I thought to myself that “I can make this work and I want to give it my all and make something out of this”.

2. Are you self taught or did you train somewhere?

I was trained under Ericka Saenz for SOFA, Georginna Desuasido, Yuki Geraldo, Monica, Mio Robo and Mikee Raymundo of Makeup Professionel, CAS and Jenn Delica. I continue to learn from the artists that I work with by observing and absorbing their styles and techniques and by going to seminars that are field related. To be relevant, fresh and dynamic, constant learning is requisite for being ahead of the game.

3. What’s your makeup style?

I am inspired by fresh clean looks, I love a classic golden age Hollywood look like the 40’s and 50’s which produced so many icons like Lauren Bacall, Ava Gardner, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, to name a few. I am also inspired by the flamboyant 80’s and pared down 90’s which are totally different in their beauty points of view. This current milenium decade is also my favorite place to be in because all the rules are broken and it is a turning point in the advancement of cosmetic technology and research which make our lives as makeup artists so much easier.

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three

4. Which product would you advise someone to never leave home without?

I never leave home without my eyeglasses! Being in my late 40’s, I’ve grown to appreciate and see the importance of wearing sunscreen. Aside from that, my lipsticks. Tom Ford is a current love. And oh, Concealer! It’s my answer to my universe

5. How do you relax?

I do indulge in occasional massages, foot reflexology, Pilates and Yoga.

6. Which Person or thing defines beauty for you?

I like women who are strong, and I also like women who have flaws, perfection is not my goal. I admire women who have paved the way and made a difference to give us a voice and created opportunities and certain freedoms that we enjoy now.

INXS

photo 3-2

7. Which makeup artist/s has helped you along the way in your career? Whose work do you look up to?

Alee Benson, Jenn Delica, Tony Dusich, Pia Reyes, Cristina Cacnio, Rikki Suarez, Toni Gutierrez and all of my other friends in the industry, They continue to inspire me with their work and work ethic, and we always uplift and support each other. Locally, it would be Juan Sarte, Jigs Mayuga, Fanny Serrano, Patrick Rosas, Denise and Effie Go. Internationally, Way Bandy, Scott Barnes, Kevin James Bennett, Kevin Aucoin, Mary Greenwell, Val Garland, Pat Mcgrath, Kabuki, Bobbi Brown, Lisa Eldridge, and Charlotte Tillbury all for their unrivalled creativity and for making women look effortlessly gorgeous which is something I have always aimed to achieve for myself.

8. Do you prefer to work on set shooting or with weddings?

Both are good avenues I enjoy being in, I enjoy the intensity of it. On Shoots, its always making yourself better while working as a team to create a beautiful image, for weddings and red carpet events, its all the tension, the emotions, very nerve racking waiting to see how they look in photos. I feel so privileged to be part of it all.

Sandy Bride 2

WIP - 2013 FINAL.indd

Jamie&Baby_Martine-111

9. What’s the best advice a fellow professional has ever given you?

Find your niche. Less is more.

10. Which one product do you wish you could have or create, to make your life easier?

A makeup bag or trolley that performs like a drone.

11. Describe yourself in one word.

Inspired.

12. Who would be in and where would your Your Dream Shoot be?

Location – Palawan or the Maldives

Photographer – Marc Nicdao

Model(s) – Fatima Rabago and Vanessa Matsunaga

Stylist – Pam Quiñones

Hair – Nante Alingasan

Acie’s Makeup Artist Kit:

Behind the Kit interview

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April 29, 2015

Behind the Scenes Demos Interviews Tips and Tricks

Makeup Chats with Kira Ramirez

Today, I’m talking with my Marsala makeover subject and friend, fellow beauty blogger Kira Ramirez! After we bonded over cosmetics and coffee, I also invited her to be interviewed for the blog. I love finding out about her beauty routine and makeup preferences, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy her answers and find them helpful, too!

1. What are your daily makeup essentials?

Kira Ramirez (K): My skin care and makeup routine is pretty straightforward. I apply Armada 60 all over my face (this serves as my base), then apply my Ellana Minerals Foundation using a kabuki brush. I then define my eyebrows using Kate Eyebrow Pencil in BR-2 (it has a fine tip that makes shading and shaping so easy), apply my Ellana Minerals Blush in Kitten on the apples of my cheeks, and finally curl my lashes using Koji eyelash curler and apply my favorite Browhaus HD Mascara.

I usually go for red lipsticks since my looks is simple, my current fave is L’Oreal in Blaze of Red.

2. How was it during your Marsala makeover with me? Can you tell me about your experience during the session?

K: We were not able to really talk during our last blogger event at SkinLux, so I really enjoyed learning more about you and your craft, and how passionate you are about makeup. I am more of a skin care enthusiast and the first thing I noticed is your impeccable skin, and I just had to know your secret, haha! Good thing we both agreed on the importance of Vitamin C and a good eye cream product, since these are non-negotiables for me as well.

The whole experience was actually pretty fun! Although I don’t wear lots of makeup on a regular basis, I do enjoy makeovers and learning about the makeup artists’ favorite products! You could say, I’m the type of person who likes peeking into kikay kits (you can learn a lot about a person just by checking out their favorite shade of lipstick).

3. What did you like most about the finished result?

K: Marsala is a subtle seductive shade and I like how Acie made it very wearable and emphasized my chinita eyes. The flirty lashes finished the look perfectly!

4. As someone who works in the beauty industry, what are your personal thoughts about Marsala as color of the year?

K: Marsala is such a nice versatile color that sort of just grew on me after the makeover. I’ve been wearing this on my lips ever since Acie showed me how to mix L’Oreal Bare Moka and EL Forbidden, great when worn on their own but creates a gorgeous Marsala color when combined. I’d say it works well on all skintones, and gives a sophisticated, sort of “grown up” color without being too vampy (ala deep berry) or vulgar (ala fire engine reds). Marsala is definitely something you can wear all year round whether on your eyes, lips, cheeks, or nails.

Would you like me to feature more interviews with beauty bloggers? Email me at hello@aciefores.com and let me know!

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March 30, 2015

Behind the Scenes Tips and Tricks

Happy Skin Review Moisturing Lippies and Eye Pencils

I’ve been late to the party in reviewing this, but when I decided to improve my makeup haul this year, the soda pop eye catching color display at Beauty Bar in Greenbelt 5 caught my attention, and I was drawn to the Lipsticks or Lippies as they are called. The Eye Candy eye pencils by Happy Skin Cosmetics were given during a blog event by Martine de Luna entitled the Blissmakerie 2014.

Shut Up And Kiss Me Moisturizing Lippies sure live up to its claim, it is a mix of shea butter, gloss and lip color in one. It applies very creamy. I’ve purchased the Honeymoon Glow and Naughty and Nice, again both aptly named for a bridal experience. Collagen infused, your lips will love you for its lip plumping effect.

HoneyMoon Glow is more peachy toned while Naughty N Nice has a plum berry tone. I love the pencil shape, you can also twist it to close and open when it gets down to a smaller point.

Wearing HoneyMoon Glow, perfect for everyday use.

Naughty N Nice, can be worn at night but also during the day when you feel like vamping it up.

Housed in a tin box, these pencils are budge and smudge proof.

L-R Watermelon, Butterscotch, Plum and Cotton Candy

Overall, the Moisturizing lipsticks are true to their claim: very moisturizing and very pigmented. However, I find myself reapplying more than often due to its balmy and creamy texture, but it’s good for a few hours. This is not a bad thing, it makes me reach for it even if I don’t need a retouch. The range of colors are suited to a global skin tone, ranging from nudes to reds, so I feel they were specifically chosen for me. I felt like buying the entire range! After all it is well priced, between P499.00 -549.00, and one can easily collect and build her lipstick collection without the guilt.

The eyeliners were quite a surprise, though. Cotton Candy and Butterscotch are ideal for rimming underneath the lashes to make the eyes look bigger, while Watermelon and Plum are good for smokey looks or can be worn everyday for a bold pop of color in the eyes. The big plus is that it is smear, water and budgeproof. It can’t get any better than that. (My only beef is, the pencil is short and can be easily be used up for everyday use. Maybe a twist type is in the works?)

What are your favorite Happy Skin products?

Happy Skin products are available at Beauty Bar, Select SM Dept stores and Plains and Prints boutiques.

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March 25, 2015

Beauty Behind the Scenes Demos Tips and Tricks

Marsala Photo Tutorial Eyes, Brows, Cheeks and Lips

I had the opportunity to do a mini makeover on my friend and fellow blogger Kira Ramirez the other week. Since I wanted to play around a bit with the Pantone color of the year, Marsala, I knew I needed a willing model who had the right skin tone and face shape for the look I wanted to create. Kira fit the bill, and so we scheduled a makeup date to test drive the look.

Here’s what I used:

Clockwise, Viseart Matte Palette, MAC Eye pencil in Teddy and Smolder and Urban Decay glide on pencil in Zero, MAC Blacktrack gel eyeliner and Fairy Drops H2Oproof mascara.

Brow Wow, MAC eyeshadow in Shade 2, MUFE eyebrow pencil in no. 4, MAC Brow brush in 263 and Clinique Brow spoolie

Kohl liners were used on the upper lashline and bottom lashline and smudged to create a base.

MUFE Eyecream shadows shades of plum and bronze to create the Marsala color was applied on the eyelid crease and smoked on the bottom lashline.

A MAC blending brush in 217 was used to remove all the harsh edges on the eye. A soft brown color was applied on top of the crease as a transitional color and to add depth to the eye. MAC Blacktrack gel eyeliner was applied and I made a slight wing on the outer part to elongate her eyes.

217 lashes were used to enhance her eyes.

Not a torture weapon, but eyelash tongs to secure the lashes on Kira’s eyes.

I’ve combined MAC Pinch me center bottom and Blushbaby center top to give her cheeks a flush of color.

MUFE Contour powder in 1 and 2 were used to sculpt and give warmth to her cheeks.

These two combined give a Marsala color.

L-R L'Oreal Bare Mocha, Estee Lauder Forbidden Kiss and Marsala Lipstick — L-R L’Oreal Bare Mocha, Estee Lauder Forbidden Kiss and Marsala Lipstick

In the words of Ricky Reyes, Eto ang finished product. A Beaming Kira!

Do you like this look on Kira? Give me your comments below.

A big shout out to EDSA Beverage Design Company’s Manila Coworking HoneyComb and Martine De Luna for the location shoot and for Kira Ramirez for being my ganado model and for being so helpful in shooting the photos for the blog. A true blogger who made DIY look so easy!

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March 23, 2015

Category: Behind the Scenes

Skin Analysis

Skin Prep:

Eyes and Face

Lips

1. Dark lip lusciousness.

2. Lip gloss love.

3. The reverse smokey eye.

4. Blushing cheeks and bronzy skin.

5. Smudged mascara & floating eyeliner.

Her Tips:

Beauty enhancements for Patty

Marissa’s Makeup Kit

Marissa’s Kikay Kit

What can it do?

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Final thoughts on Coverderm.