Gifted Goods

I recently received some love packs and gifts from blogger friends and like always, I want to document them by sharing them in posts. First package is from my dear friend Karen of CFbeauty. She only included cruelty-free cosmetics for me which I find very thoughtful and sweet :)

The Urban Decay shadows are all very interesting as bright matte shadows and loose pigments are both very new to me, its so exciting! She also picked up a Missha Perfect Cover BB cream for me which matches my skin tone beautifully! You are gifted Karen! *hugs*

I also have a group photo of my gifts from Jennifer of Lifeandlensofbeauty.

J didn't know I liked the FaceQ masks, so I was surprised she gifted me a couple of my favorite variants. The Soap & Glory day moisturizer is intriguing as I haven't tried anything from the brand although I've seen their counters in Hong Kong. I have so much new stuff to try, I think I'll use the LUSH Aqua Marina cleanser tonight! :)

So, am I spoiled or what? I love my blogger babes! You gals are the best!

♡,

G

Shu Uemura Portable Brush Set

Being a big fan of Shu Uemura brushes, I almost squealed in delight when I saw this set again at Temptation Hong Kong Duty Free (I skipped it the first time and regretted it). Boy did they name that store right! *winks* Now I have it and that makes me a very happy camper!

The 5 piece set contains 4 brushes + the zip-up leather case.

this is a lightweight set, which makes it perfect for traveling. It fits perfectly inside my cosmetic case.

The zip-up case has 1 spacious slot (left) for the face brush which can fit 2 more small/thin brushes (like my spooly) plus 3 smaller slots for the slender brushes.

top to bottom: eye / lip liner brush (sable), eyeshadow brush (sable), cheek brush (pony/squirrel) & face brush (goat)

All the brushes are soft to touch and have good quality unlike those flimsy ones which come with limited edition sets where the packaging lures you into buying it but end up realizing you were better off saving your money. *looks at Aya Takano* 

Everything in this set is functional, it has all the brushes I NEED when traveling. Well, add a spooly / screw type brush for my taming my brows and its perfect for me! I especially like the eyeshadow brush which is the best for applying Armani Eyes To Kill shadows. My only complaint would be the cheek/blush brush is too soft and small, but its alright, it still works. 

This set can only be purchased at Duty Free stores. I bought mine for HKD380 (approx. USD48 / Php2,080) which is a great deal for Shu Uemura quality. Be on the lookout when you're flying! :)

♡,

G

Ettusais Quick Fix Powder SPF10 PA++

Definitely an impulse buy, Ettusais' Quick Fix Powder is another mineral powder I picked up in Hong Kong during my cosmetics shopping spree with Jennifer. I already lost the receipt but I think this retails around HKD160+ (approx. Php900+) which is pretty practical for the packaging and the powder.

The Ettusais Quick Fix Powder compact mineral powder works like a mattifying powder that can be used during the day to combat shine and smooth out unevenness. The non-comedogenic formulation means it won’t clog pores and the Ettusais Quick Fix Powder also contains SPF 10 PA++ to protect your skin.

I fancy the white lace detail on the vibrant magenta compact. <3

the fluffy puff feels super soft and airy against the skin. I love it. *cuddles puff* I wish other brands would follow suit as it makes application/retouching enjoyable. *poof poof*

It only comes in 1 shade, which is supposedly translucent or 'natural color', but I find it has a tinge of yellowish tone in it which fits me nicely. It brightens and freshens up my face in a swipe. I have used it a couple of times and I'm surprised it hasn't broken me out since it contains mineral ingredients (not that I'm waiting for it). The SPF 10 is also an appreciated bonus. Even if its not as fine in texture as department store labels, its an effective product in terms of keeping the face shine-free. Definitely recommended for those with normal-oily skin. Otherwise it will only emphasize dryness on your skin.

As good as it is, I'm still on the look out for the perfect pressed powder to match my needs. (NC25-30 color match, has SPF, no mineral ingredient, non-comedogenic) What's your favorite pressed powder? Share & I'll check it out!  

♡,

G