How to BronzTour

 

Are you into PINK OR ORANGE colored blushes?

Mine is actually NONE Of the Above because I am into Lilac colored cheeks.  

It started when I first tried Etude House's Sweet Recipe Cupcake - which I actually finished - yes, hit the pan!  I never looked back and even updated it with Laura Mercier's Kir Royale.

But as you all know, I could wear this for years but there are days I would look too pale and depend on my trustee Bronzers --- and no, I don't apply it as bronzer but as a blush.  It doubles up as a contour product too!

My favorite?  NARS LAGUNA BLUSH.  This works for all skin tone!  

You can be uber pale, medium tone or dark skinned.  You just need to control the amount of application and you are good to go!

I also like the fact that I minized my makeup application in half!  No need for separate contour powder and I can just use this same blush to apply lightly on areas I would like to "hide". 

How do you like this look?

How To: Make Eyes Appear Closer

 

How to make eyes appear closer you say? Most often, people would use glasses to emphasize the width of their eyes.  Some doesn’t so they would go for lasik eye surgery,  if you wonder about lasik eye surgery cost , the best prices are often found in Dubai (as told by my friend).  The prices starts at $1000 and surgeries like SMiLE Lasik are around $2,800 for both eyes.

As for me, I am here to teach you how to achieve such with makeup.  And you would probably expect me to create a full face makeup or someone like that from theater using various products to achieve this look.

Well, you are wrong!  I have no time to bring out all the products like before - I am a super busy and always in a rush MOM!  So if like me, you can only spare a few minutes to look good, you are at the right place!

TADA!  Can you see the difference?

A lot of people would think I'd achieve this closer eyes look with eyeshadow, I am proving to you that you can do so with one product - CONTOUR POWDER.  You can even use a contour cream or liquid but that would be harder to blend though it will last longer!  

These are some of the products used to achieve a cleaner look!

Products used:
Eyebrow pencil : @bobbibrownph
Concealer: @makeupforever
Setting Powder: @lauramercier
Contour powder: @tartecosmetics
Big Brush : @avonph (good quality brushes nila guys! 👍)
Small brush to blend concealer : @realtechniquesphilippines (another winner brush brand)

If you want to proceed to your usual eyeshadow, eyeliner and the whole she bang, you may continue to do so after the contouring step!  

Barry M Fresh Face Look

 

When Barry M Launched their Fresh Face products a few months back, I did a look which I posed on Instagram Reels.  Until this day, I still use a lot of their products for quick and easy makeup looks.  Their products are lightweight and easy to work with even for first time makeup wearers.

Included in the collection are the following ---

• Barry M Fresh Face Foundation (Php499.00)
• Barry M Fresh Face Cheek and Lip Tint (Php249.00)
• Barry M Feather Brow (Php349.00)
• Barry M Fresh Face Glow Beam Illuminating Palette (Php399.00)

Price points aren't bad for the quality.  I have known Barry M since I have been a fan of their Nail Lacquers.  I also like the fact that the local distributor brought in their makeup line because I have read reviews on international blogging sites that these makeup were good!

Contour and Highlight Technique

 

Brows, eyeliner application.

Those were just some of the complaints I get from make up students.  Why is it so hard?  

One makeup application technique that is actually more difficult as you can imagine--- Contouring and Highlighting.

I remembered having a hard time when I was starting out as a Bridal Make Up Artist!  With HD Camera and videos, I was stressed to make sure the contour and highlight I am doing for the brides are perfect.  Imagine having crooked nose or fatty face from misuse of highlight and contour products?  

I . Was. SCARED!  Scared enough to always ask my husband to always check for the final look (2nd set of eyes always work!)  Ayan, I openly shared what I was scared off, but that's normal.  And being scared meant you will strive to learn and master your own craft!

So fast forward to today, I still do contouring and highlighting a lot!  These days, people are into no-makeup makeup look!  But this step is actually very important since we are on a selfie-era!  Everything had to be on videos or photos!  Kaya better be Camera-ready!

LIKE ME!

A simple before and after photo to show how subtle contour and highlight can make a huge difference!

Some of you have your own weapon, if you plan to do this on a daily basis, I suggest to most subtle, natural and easiest method are powders!  They may not last as long but the disappearance of the product can actually work better ---- a more natural effect.

I like to use the Make Up For Ever's Contour/Highlight KIT.  You can head on to their store and pick the right shade for you - I believe they have different versions for different skin tone.

Here are some subtle contour/highlight tips I learn through the years ---

Update: Nose Contour Technique

 

I wish I could get a nose surgery…seriously…if that’s one thing I can get to do on my face….nose it is!

I mean obviously, there are several parts of my face that I want to change….(just being honest here) BUT, I can do away with false lashes, to make my eyes appear larger, I honestly like my one-liner eye whenever I smile but there’s nothing I can do to change my nose unless I use makeup.

Obviously, even when I get to be offered with free NOSE surgery, I will NEVER take the offer —- for so many reasons.

1. I’m a scaredy cat.

2. I have many allergies so beauty enhancements with surgery will NEVER cross my mind.

3. My husband loves my nose as it is….he’s fallen in love with me since Senior High ok? :P  (Haba  ng hair ko I know! :P)

So through the years, I almost perfected nose contouring especially my own!  So please…don’t judge me when you see me in person —- it’s not the filter…it’s always the makeup for me! :P

Can you spot the difference in both photos? 

If you have to look closely, that is a compliment for me, that means, the change is subtle you have to look closely to see the change! 

A quick video shared on my Instagram account using Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer Duo!  The easiest tool to use not only to conceal but to contour and highlight.

What do you think?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐤𝐢 𝐓𝐢𝐮 (@askmewhats)

How I Use Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage Concealer Duo

 

How simple can a concealer/corrector/highlighter/contour product can get?

When you put them in a form of retractable pen packaging!  Laura Mercier did it this time in simplifying a busy woman’s life!  MY LIFE to be exact.

I dislike it when I am in the middle of bathing my son, cooking, washing dishes and I have to face someone in front of the video for a very short and quick meeting.  Imagine having to rummage through my makeup station for different makeup products?

Concealing is key!  I have been using foundations and concealers more often than when I was going out!  I can honestly skip a face powder/powder foundation, all I need to do is to conceal here and there and I can honestly look human in less than 5 minutes!  All thanks to products like the Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer Duo!

A two-in-one, full-coverage concealer with a weightless formula to quickly erase imperfections and brighten up the under-eye area. 

I got 2 pens in shades 3C and N5 for my whole face and did not use anything else just to prove to you how a mom who usually sleeps around 3am can look decent.

Swatch

Top: 3C 
Bottom: N5

How to use Make Up For Ever's GLITZY Palette

How many times do I have to stress to you the importance of subtle contouring, highlighting and blushing?

If not a lot of times, well I'm doing my part today!  

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT since this is the social media times - everyone's taking photos of their food, their clothes and most of all, their faces!  

And to have your photos taken on a smart phone, you'll want your skin to look healthy and fresh!  And I've got news for you --- it takes a bit of work sometimes and this palette I recently tried got its' own space at my dresser table!  I have been reaching out for this almost everyday!

Subtle look by Yours truly!

Make Up For Ever Glitzy Face Palette

Php3,950.00 (approximate)

Discover the all-in-one pro palette with 9 universal shades to create appealing makeup looks for all skin tones. Highlight, Sculpt, Blush, Glitz: 4 steps is all it takes to #glitzitup 

How to Contour and Highlight Using Contour and Highlight Stick from IMAGIC

Such a long title! 

But seriously, to those who tell me they can't contour and highlight for the love of beauty... come on, YOU CAN!  You only need a lot of practice and maybe.... (shameless plug coming up) you can backread my past post...

How to Contour for Photography (I'm so proud of this post because my face looked so chiseled here!)

And of course, I also reviewed a similar contour and highlight product from the same brand...

IMAGIC PROfessional Contour Cream Kit

But before you get distracted with anything else, let's talk about the new IMAGIC PROfessional Highlight and Contour Stick.  This product packaging isn't new in the market, Etude House has one, also NYX (in a slimmer pencil packaging)

IMAGIC PROfessional Cosmetics Highlight & Contour Stick

Php400.00 (Php299.00 at BeautyMnl.com)

Available in shades 1, 2 and 3

"Easy-to-use stick instantly adds depth and dimension to facial features; creamy texture glides on without tugging the skin; ideal for sculpting the jawline, cheekbones, nose, temples, and brows; waterproof formula delivers a long-lasting finish."

A Subtle Contour Powder for Fair Complexion!

Remember my favorite daily contour powder from Pony Effect?  If you don't, feel free to click link HERE and reread my old post!  I loved it so much I actually hit the pan and I don't know if I get to order from Althea again because they are always out-of-stock.

Yes, I have a couple of nice-looking contour powders for the face that I use on a daily basis but there are really days I'm craving for that super natural contour powder that looks almost seamless and invisible to the naked eye.  

What's the point of applying if it looks invisible you say?

Well, it gives a nice effect on Photos and #AMWIgStories ! hahaha Arte no?  But hey, a girl gotta do something to look nice for you guys!  #GroupHug nga!

So back to my subtle contour powder story!  The Pony Effect Contour Powder in Crony has a bit of a warmer undertone and some of you can see that on my review post!  Today, I'm sharing the same effect but this time, on a cooler undertone and you don't need to log online to purchase one!  It is easily accessible in Inglot Stores!

Inglot Freedom System HD Sculpting Powder

Shade 505

Php750.00

 Perfect product to contour and sculpt your face, enhancing only the best features and diverting attention from any imperfections. With high pigment colour concentration and translucent coverage the illusion of a more structured face can be achieved without the excess product.

Make Up For Ever Sculpting KIT Review

When I was studying makeup, one of the most sought after "contour and highlight" product was the one from Make Up For Ever Sculpting Kit.  I've been wanting this forever but since I get easily distracted from other brands, I can't believe I just got this item latter part of last year!  

Make Up For Ever Sculpting KIT

02 Neutral Light

Php2,550.00

It comes in a nifty smooth black compact that is slim enough store even in your slim and tiny handbag.  

Keyword: Subtle Contouring with Clinique

"How can you possibly contour on a daily basis?"

It is possible if you contour the way I do.  No fake-tans, no bronzers, no dirty lines.

Just clean, fresh, natural-looking highlights and contours on specific areas of my face.  That's the AMW style of contouring on a daily basis!

The key to successful natural-looking contour?  Using the right product.  I found it recently through Clinique Sculptionary Cheek Contouring Palette in Defining Nectars (Php2,100.00).

Eye Can Do It with Happy Skin!

I couldn't believe I will be telling you this, but I have grown to a point in my life I'm actually comfortable just using 1 shade to 2 shades of eyeshadow max!

I used to go crazy with eyeshadow shades - electric blue to dark purples to moss green and aqua blue, you name it, I've done them all!  ---> please don't search my old photos, because they make me CRINGE, big time!

And because of my love for single to duo shadows, the Happy Skin Eye Can Do It 3-way KIT is something I've been using day in and out!  Why?  Because I love that the shades are really friendly to use + I still get to contour subtly which is one of my favorite makeup step (if you don't know this by now!)

Eye Can Do It! Eyes, Brows, Nose Line Kit In Deep Taupe Soft Brown
Php699.00

"One product, three ways. This Happy Skin Eye Can Do It! 3-Way Eyes, Brows, Nose Line Kit includes two long-wearing brown tones that you can use no matter your skin tone. It features a double-ended brush–an angled tip to perfectly define brows and the other end for shading and contouring. This time-saver allows you to quickly shape brows and create effortless eyes in a blink.This Kit Features Argan Oil, Which Helps Color Glide On Smoothly, Effortlessly, And Evenly. Touted As "Liquid Gold," Argan Oil Superbly Nourishes The Delicate Skin In The Eye Area, Too."

BLK Cosmetics Contour, Blush & Highlight Palettes Review (Flushed and Sun-Kissed)

The Contour, Blush and Highlight palettes are in trend nowadays!  Who does not prefer a 3-in-1 product?  Raise your hand and I'll give you a good whipping! 

BLK Cosmetics may have just a few collection for a make up enthusiast like myself BUT, they came up with something COMPLETE in just a palette! 

The BLK Cosmetics Contour, Blush & Highlight Palette

Php499.00 each (approx $8.00)

Comes in 2 shades ---

Flushed (Rose Blush)

Sun-kissed (Peach Blush)

Description

Sculpting, made easy. Achieving perfectly defined cheeks is as easy as 1-2-3 with this three-step face palette with expertly coordinated shades to flatter every complexion: a matte contour, an iridescent blush, and a champagne highlighter. It’s also infused with Vitamin E to keep skin young-looking. Start sheer and blend to perfection. You can’t go wrong. 

How to Use the Maybelline FashionBrow 3D Brow & Nose Palette

I've had the Maybelline FashionBrow 3D Brow and Nose Palette for months now and I have been using this on and off feeling lukewarm about it so I took time, really long time to really understand if I like this product or not.

So Maybelline, a couple of months ago, launched their full range of brow products!  From pencils to powder palettes to wax and brow mascaras, I've tried almost all of them and with the FashionBrow 3D Brow and Nose Palette, I actually like this as an eyeshadow and nose contour rather than a brow powder!  Not because the product does not deliver, you'll see in my before and after photos that it does!  It's just that, I'm more of a brow pencil as of the moment!

Maybelline FashionBrow 3D Brow & Nose Palette

Php299.00

Finely-milled powder formulation adheres to skin for long-lasting wear; offers high-pigment, easy-to-apply brow color; helpful for light contouring and sculpting of the nose line; allows you to create shadow and dimension in other parts of the face; palette includes dual-ended brush for precision shading and definition.

My Thoughts On IMAGIC PROfessional Contour Cream KIT

There are so many makeup tricks I learned in Make Up School years ago, but one learning that I will never forget is how to contour and highlight the face using cream-based product(s).  Just the mere fact of applying additional "cream" product in a humid weather is quite scary, and let's not forget most Filipinas have oily/combination skin.  

But what's the advantage of using cream based contour product?  

Well, aside from longevity, when applied properly, the effect is more natural (because non-powdery) at the same time, it is easier to create a natural-looking transition of your contour and highlight product.  

That's why as difficult it may sound to use such product, I do use cream type contour and highlight on clients and myself (especially if I am hosting or attending an important event).

Whew, such long introduction, but basically, I got the IMAGIC Contour Cream KIT months back and I'm finally ready to share my thoughts on this after testing this out on both myself and clients.

IMAGIC Contour Cream Kit

Php750.00 (now Php645.00 at BeautyMNL.com)

The Palette I got is Light which I think is perfect for my complexion.  It comes with 6 shades and I like the variation of shades that would match for both cool and warm undertone.

Gorgeous Limited Edition Face Color Trio You Should Grab!

NOW!

And if you love Jessie J, there's more reason for you to get this palette!

I must admit, I love ALL Jessie J songs but that is not the reason why I picked this palette.  I originally picked this palette because of 2 words --- LIMITED EDITION.  And you know how it is when you are a make up enthusiasts, you tend to hoard on limited edition make up products just because you are scared you won't get the chance to own them in the future.

But guess what?  My love for this palette goes BEYOND Limited Edition.  I'll tell you more after the jump!

Make Up For Ever Artist Face Color Launch

As a make up artist, you would think that I enjoy piling on makeup on my own face..well, you're wrong!  If you are a good friend of mine, a family member or just a long-time AMW reader, you would know that my default makeup look would be....

THIS!

Full brows, lined eyes, colored yet highlighted cheeks and glossy gradient lips!

I'm definitely not getting any younger so the phrase "Less Is More" really applies to me!

Photo taken by: Angela of LushAngel.com

When I visited Make Up For Ever Greenbelt branch for a mini gathering to get to know their newest product range.  I came to know the different looks in trend right now.

Do you want a Draping with Millenial Pink Look?  A Dewy Rose Tint? A Sculpted Glow or just full on Glow For It?

All possible with the newest range called Artist Face Color --- brace yourself, 34 shades of blush, highlighter and sculpting powder right in front of me!  I was in shocked and literally brain was in face color heaven!

Photo: Not full collection 

Benefit Hoola Quickie Contour Stick Review

 

Hoola is Benefit's iconic product to contour and warm your face.  I remembered using it a lot during workshops explaining attendees how to rightfully use it and how amazing it it.

 

Then came the Hoola Quickie Contour Stick, which is the cream stick version of the famous Hoola Box O' Powder.  I am so excited to use this especially since this is cream to powder finish which I think would work for my skin type.

Housed in a super cute Benefit-type of packaging.  Gold retractable stick that screams --- "I'm special!  Use me!"

 

I have been using this on and off since I've been trying out so many contour products, but after MONTHS, I'm finally ready to share my thoughts on this.

Benefit Hoola Quickie Contour Stick says ---

Chisel those cheekbones, slim that nose and get an overall sculpted look with this soft bronze, cream-to-powder contour stick. Hoola quickie contour stick’s dome shape tip ensures a smooth, targeted application every time! 

• Natural, soft matte finish 
• Longwearing formula
• Blends seamlessly

DETAILS 8.5 Net wt. 0.3 oz.

Tarte Tarteist Review

How does it feel to hold the most coveted Tarte Tarteist Pro Glow?
All thanks to my good friend Jheng for gifting me this because this palette deserves a shoutout and lots of "whistling" for being wonderful in terms of giving me the sculpt and glow that I want (and need!)

So pretty I can even skip applying face powder!

"A highlight and contour palette with six pigmented powder and cream shades to create perfectly glowing, chiseled looks on every skin tone." 

This product is housed in a velvety black cardboard palette.  I like the feel but I actually felt it gets dirtied up quite easily so I tend to put it back in the box after EVERY use (which is a hassle by the way). 

Cathy Doll Sculpting: Highlight & Shading Cushion Review

Happy Friday!
This week and the rest of the weeks flew by pretty quickly I can't keep track!  It's almost August guys!  And I'm a bit melo-dramatic because it was months ago (particularly May 2017) when I hosted the launch of Cathy Doll All Dolled Up Launch which includes the Sculpting Highlight & Shading Cushion.  It's funny I actually tried this product as early as first quarter of the year, was really excited about this but waited for the official launch to really share my review!  Because of the extremely busy schedule, I can't believe I'm only reviewing this now!  But better late than never!

Upon seeing these products in Bangkok, Thailand at the Karmart Store, I immediately went for this because I am always a sucker for unique products!  This is definitely one of the most unique and innovative Highlight and Contour product and I'm glad my excitement didn't end there!  This product really works.

Housed in a similar packaging as the Cathy Doll AA Cushion or any BB Cushion, everything looks the same until you open the packaging.

 

"Cathy Doll Sculpting Highlight and Shading Cushion SPF50 PA +++ is a 3 dimensional contour cushion that comes with a highlighter to emphasize your best features and shading to add 3 dimensional appearance. Aside offering a grease-free, matte finish look upon application, the cushion also provides effective sun protection. You may choose from the 2 available shades that would best suit your skin tone."