FOTD: Eyeliner!

Hello, my friends! How is your week going so far? How is work/school? I hope you all started it with a bang! My week so far has been good. I've been addicted to prize claws... you know those claw games at arcades? I recently acquired a new pink domo =p

This was from Dave & Busters.

Anyway, aside from that laborious hobby, I've been meddling with eyeliner. I'm not usually big on eyeliners as you can see in my pictures but I like how it defines the eyes and change your look drastically. With eyeliner, I look and feel like a completely different person. I guess I'm still not used to it yet, but I'm starting to really like it.









I certainly look more awake than usual. I am crazy about eyeliner right now! Here's what I used:

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation in Warm Sand (see my review here) - I'm still really loving this foundation. It's got that certain consistency that dries really quickly to a nice, semi matte finish. It feels so luxurious and nearly a second skin. Half a pump is more than enough to cover redness and even out the skin tone.

Alison Raffaele Mineral Powder Foundation in Skintone 2- I've been using this as a finishing powder although it's really meant to be used as a foundation. The loose powder is silky smooth and has a beautiful finish. It looks wonderful by itself as well, and just the right amount to even out any flaws.

CoverGirl Perfect Point Eyeliner in Black Onyx - The eyeliner that stayed on almost all day. It did smudge, but it lasted over 6+ hours. That's also probably because I work in an very air conditioned office so it doesn't have time to melt off my face. It's also extremely cheap... I got it on for $1 at Dollar Tree. There's also a smudging tip on the back of the pencil, which I've tried but didn't like the results on myself. It's easier to use a smudge brush.

Lancome Subtil Blush in Cedar Rose - One of my prettiest blushes! It's extremely sheer but it builds up lightly and adds a nice wash of color for the cheeks. I like the dusty rose color because of its warmth and subtle glow. Less is more!

MAC Lip Gloss in Rich and Ripe - Oldie but a goodie :) I really love this color! Unfortunately, this came out sometime in 2008 or something and I can't find it anymore. Good thing is that I have a lifetime supply of lip products to keep me afloat!

MAC e/s duo in Illusionary Burning Ambition - One of my safe neutrals I like to sweep on my lids. It's a no brainer and is great when travelling. Somehow, this brown color is everything I like in a brown... it's a true neutral but with a hint of gold . I have some brown eyeshadows with a reddish tone or is too coppery. This duo is one of my favorite eyeshadows, and it never fails. Never.

So that was my look. Now, my question is, do you guys wear eyeliner daily or only for special occasions? I'm curious to know.

Talk to you guys soon!!!!! :)

One more thing, the winner of the my Apothica/SkincareRX giveaway is Vintage Makeup! Congrats, beautiful!

NOW CLOSED.

Review: Dior Energizing Toner and Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner

I'm nearly 80% done with this toner and it lasted me about 7 months while using it on and off. Dior describes this as an energizing toner that is enriched with white tea to make your skin radiant. It's supposed to be used as the last step of your makeup removing routine. I do like it quite a lot, because it smells amazing (think sweet mango/white grape..) and feels nice and soothing on the skin. I use it only in the morning to remove any impurities from my sleep. I love that it's in a convenient pump so I can just take a cotton round and use it effortlessly. I hate thinking in the morning =p Even though this toner has alcohol in it, I appreciate that it dries fast and leaves no greasiness behind. I prefer my nighttime toners to be liquidy lotion, with moisturizing agents.

PROS

+White Tea is infused in its formula; tightens skin

+My skintone looks brighter and more radiant in the morning. I can see the difference without it.

+One pump does it all - removes dirt, and keeps face fresh. 6.7oz/200ml lasted me about 7 months. I still have 20% leftover.  

+Cost $30 for a generous 6.7oz/200ml bottle. 

CONS

-Alcohol in the ingredients might irritate sensitive skinned folks

Overall, I really like this toner and I'd consider repurchasing it again. I haven't tried anything similar to this so I'm not sure how it compares to other Dior ones. I love the scent SO much. It's ridiculous how fresh smelling it is :) This toner is great for people who have oily and combination skin like myself.

The next one I want to talk about is the Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner :) I've been using this for a few months already (at night) and it's made a big difference in how my skin is absorbing the rest of the skincare products I use. 

After I cleanse my face, I spritz this on and pat this over my face and neck. It has a slight lavender scent that is calming and pretty. I like that the mist is extremely fine and sprays very evenly. It feels amazing on the skin, and hydrates it quite nicely. It really seals in the moisture and works well in combination with my serum and face cream. It "sticks" it better I guess? When I don't use this toner, I noticed my serum and face cream is more runnier on my face but this somehow binds it together and makes it stay on nicely.

There is no alcohol in this toner and is VERY soothing and hydrating. I felt that my skin retained more moisture every time I use this and it's made my skin softer with continued use. I've never tried any other Dermalogica products before, but I know people really like their sunscreens. And they've been around doing skincare for 25 years and have a pretty extensive list of products and research put into the company.

Ingredients:

Extracts Of: Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender), Melissa Officinalis (Balm Mint); Aloe Barbadensis Gel, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Pca, Sorbitol, Proline, Propylene Glycol, Extracts Of: Malva Sylvestris (Mallow), Hedera Helix (Ivy), Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber), Sambucus Nigra, Arnica Montana, Parietaria Officinalis (Pellitory); Ricinoleth-40, Methyl Gluceth-20, Sorbic Acid, Benzophenone-4, Polysorbate 20, Disodium Edta, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben.

PROS

+Effective toner, very hydrating 

+Spritzer sprays a fine mist so there is no excess liquid to make it wasteful

+Lavender scent (I love!). 

+Uses a lot of calming oils and extracts and absorbs into skin beautifully

+$32 for a  very generous 8.4oz/250ml amount. You can buy 1.6oz bottles on Amazon. Perfect for travel!

CONS

-None so far!

I'd def repurchase this toner because of the hydrating properties it has. It smells very naturalistic and has good for your skin ingredients in it. If I buy the smaller bottles, I could take it with me as a facial spray like I do with my Body Shop Vitamin E spray :) They recommend this for all skin types, although Dermalogica makes a lot of skincare catered for sensitive skin. I highly recommend! :)

A lot of people told me how they don't understand the need for a facial toner if you use a good face wash and cream afterwards but my theory is that not all toners are created equally. There are some that are meant to add back the hydration into the skin, and not just for getting rid of excess dirt and soap (stereotype). My skin always feel extra pampered and plump if I use a rich toning lotion at night and I do believe it makes all the difference in the world when it comes down to taking care of your skin.

Do you use a toner in the AM or PM? Do share your thoughts/beliefs! :) 

Disclaimer: All products have been purchased by me :)

Bobbi Brown's Skin Foundation

Hey all! How is your Tuesday thus far? Mine has been incredibly draining from the lack of sleep. I suppose I stay up too much to watch movies or read books o_o I'm living it up, mundanely. =p

Anyhow, as mundane as it can be during the week, I try to stay afloat and take my makeup for a spin. Over the years, I've collected many foundations... it's horrid to think how much money I've wasted invested, but everyone's got their hobbies right?

The Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation is relatively new for me, and I've used it several times for numerous occasions. I can say right now that it's a very nice formula, and tries very quickly so you have to work quick to set it otherwise it will dry out and become blotchy. Aesthetic-wise, gorgeous packaging. Simple layout, signature font. I love it. The range of shades are also really great... I've nearly found a perfect match. I am between Sand and Warm Sand, both of which go on perfectly by itself. I only own Warm Sand, but I've swatched Sand at the Bobbi Brown counter and decided to get a half shade darker just in case.

Are you a big fan of Bobbi Brown cosmetics? What's your favorite? :) I am dying to try their foundation stick!

Reminder: Don't forget to enter my giveaway ending tomorrow (8/24) to win a giftcard to Apothica and SkincareRX! You can get yourself some Bobbi Brown, Shiseido, Stila, etc :) (link to giveaway)
It's opened to everyone! =)

MAC Face & Body Foundation.... again!

Remember how much I liked the MAC Face & Body foundation in my last post? I liked it so much that I (somewhat) guiltily got 2 more bottles, both in different shades. I got it in shades C1, and C2...I do think they match me better. I was doing endless swatching online because I don't really like going into the MAC stores. I am normally NC20-25 but most of my foundations are NC25ish and sometimes they can come off too yellow for me which was why I settled for shade N2 (neutral) in the beginning. I went to several MAC stores a handful of times and they matched me with NC15 which I thought, in my mind, was out worldly.

Anyway,  I've noticed a lot of people were concerned with MAC foundations because they broke out from it. I've never had any bad experiences with MAC before, but I used to use their studio tech foundation (the one in the compact), and I had hives around my face as a result of it. That was years ago, and I'm not sure if they've changed formulas since. Also, the face & body one does not have sunscreen in it, which is pleasant because those sunscreen ingredients aren't there and it photographs better.







It's becoming kind of a holy grail foundation for me this summer. I love that it's water based, because I have unseasonably dry skin year round. At first, since it's a face and body foundation, I thought it would be super dense but it's quite the opposite. In fact, it's most liquidy foundation I've ever used :p

I do hope you are all ending your week well. It's Friday, after all :)

I also wanted to remind you all not to forget to enter my giveaway sponsored by Apothica and SkincareRX (link) :) You have until Aug 24th to complete your entries. Gonna be street food hopping in San Fran this weekend. Enjoy the rest of your day! :)

Review: MAC Face & Body Foundation

Hey everyone! This week is rolling by so fast. I'm looking forward to the weekend already!

I recently tweeted that I am in LOVE with the MAC Face & Body Foundation! LOL I only got it 3 days ago but it's so unique that I'm surprised I never took a 2nd glance at it! o_o I read a lot of reviews from other bloggers and I've been dying to try it for months. I was feeling guilty to purchase it since I had so many foundations at home, but I was like.. what the hey... o_o I have absolutely no self control.

The Face & Body foundation is an ultra sheer, ultra liquidy foundation that provides sheer coverage and has a dewy/satin finish. I shouldn't even call it a foundation because it's soooo liquidy. When you pour it out, you literally have to watch it so it doesn't roll off your hands.

Packaging: I'm not big on how it looks. It's not gorgeous to look at... it's more like something makeup artists carry in their arsenal. But it's sensible packaging with the foundation in the plastic bottle with a trusty twist cap closure. It's neither yay or nay but all uniformly MAC.

I got the shade in N2... it's neither cool or warm, just a very skin-like color. And if you look closely enough, it's more like a liquidy pigment of color. It's very light, but it blends out like a dream (sorry for the cliche).

You have to shake the bottle before you pour it on your hands because the foundation separates. This is from what I read online so I do it beforehand in case. It's probably due to the high level of water in it.

This is partially blended. It looks darker on my hand, but it turns brighter as it's being blended.

Blended out. It's very dewy so a nice blotting powder will set this foundation evenly.

Natural light

Indoor lighting

It's not going to cover blemishes and other stubborn flaws, but a sheer foundation is amazing at evening out the skin tone. 

On me. I have a pimple where my beard would be...LOL







The sheerness of it may turn some people off but it's really a nice well rounded product. It feels more like a tinted moisturizer than anything else because of how hydrating it is. I know a lot of people who've had allergies to MAC foundations... I'm not sure if this has the same ingredients as their studio sculpting one. I haven't come across allergies using it, but I'll def report it if I do.

Here are the ingredients:
Purified Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Butylene Glycol, PVP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Tea-Stearate, PVP/Eicosene Copolymer, Stearic Acid, Talc, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood), Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben. May contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Chromium Oxide Greens.


There is also no sunscreen ingredients in it either. Some people get allergies from the sunscreen in makeup from reacting chemicals. 

Price-wise, I'd say this is an incredible deal. It's $32 retail for 4oz/120ml. That's like 4 different foundations for the price of one! That's $8 per ounce... cheaper than a drugstore foundation.

Have you tried Mac's Face & Body Foundation? Thoughts?

disclaimer: purchased myself :)

$25 Apothica/SkincareRX Giveaway!

Hey lovlies! I am really pleased to announce that I’ve partnered up with Apothica and SkincareRX to host a giveaway for a chance to win a $25 gift card to Apothica.com, useable at any of their sister sites as well. The winner will be randomly chosen by me (random.org) and will be contacted by Apothica to redeem the gift card.

Apothica and SkincareRX carry a large array of skincare and cosmetics. For instance, they have one of my favorite summer time foundations – the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation.

It’s an extremely lightweight, medium coverage foundation that I’ve been using for awhile but have yet to give it a proper review. Waiting for the perfect time, I guess :p Plus, I have too many in rotation right now o_~ I’ll definitely be reviewing that in the next few days! They don’t have the full range of the cream eyeshadows that I love but they do have a very nice selection of everyday colors both in cream and pressed formulations.

Anyway, here are the rules. I’ve tried to make it as easy as possible so everyone can have a chance to enter. It is opened to the US and international so enter away! :)

Rules:
1. Must be a follower of my blog to enter.
2. Contest ends 8/24/11 @ 11pm PDT

Option 1: Facebook (+1 entry)
1. Visit Apothica.com
2. Write on Apothica’s Facebook wall about what you think of Apothica
Option 2: Twitter (+1 entry)
1. Visit Apothica.com
2. Tweet about Apothica on your own Twitter Account
Option 3: Blog (+1 entry)
1. Visit Apothica.com
2. Write something on your blog about what you think of Apothica

Extra Entries (optional):
“Like” my Facebook page (link) (+3 entries)
Follow me on Twitter (link) ( (+3 entries)
Spread the word about this giveaway (+3 entries)

Okay, that's it! I hope it's not too difficult. All in all, there is a maximum of 10 entries. Please fill out the form below.  Good luck all! =)

Facebook Page

Hi all :)

I got a handful of emails awhile ago to start a Facebook page so I can communicate with you all outside of Twitter and my blog, plus being available on all platforms of social media is pretty awesome as well. I didn't get around it until now... but now I'm live :) 

Here is the link:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rainy-Days-Lattes/200473283342971

You guys can "like" it if you want to, but I'm already so humbled by anyone who reads my dinky little blog :)

If I get more than 20 likes, I can get my own username! LOL Yay! 

Def come say hi! :) I can't wait to meet you all on FB. 

Favorites from July =D

Hey everyone! How is your weekend so far? Mine has been good so far. This weekend has come and gone so fast.. like a fleeting memory. On Friday, I went to see Jay Mohr perform at the Improv for a company event. It was tons of fun but I couldn't take any pics inside because they prohibited cameras. I'm surprised I didn't know who he is... he's in a lot of Hollywood films o_o Saturday was spent having lunch with a friend and hitting the gym. Sunday consisted of sleeping in and running errands... and watching reruns of One Tree Hill. I love doing nothing on Sundays :)

Here are some of my favorites for July. I enjoyed reading a lot of your favorites and now curious to try some of them. Yay for blogger influence! LOL


Dermablend Smooth Indulgence Foundation SPF 20

I don't think this foundation gets enough love for what it is. The packaging is extremely simple, unpretentious and really plain. But the foundation is the real star. I'd say this is a full coverage foundation with a very strong yellow undertone.

A lot of people with acne scarring swears by this foundation and while I do not have acne scars, I think it's a beautiful foundation for photos. It really matches my skin tone well because of the yellower tint. Since it's full coverage, this doubles as my concealer as well. I'm not even exaggerating by saying it has intense coverage.

I really love this foundation... it's so concentrated and you only need so little :) I use my fingers to apply it on and after I'm done, my fingers are sooo tinted LOL.

See what I mean? o_o....

Clinique Quick Eyes Cream Shadow in Sparkling Nude (01)

I got this awhile ago during one of Clinique's GWP promotions. I didn't much of it at first, but it's such a pretty cream shadow! It goes perfectly underneath any eyeshadow to intensify the color or to accentuate and brighten the eyes. Really pretty! I must look for other shades.

With NYX Jade e/s

NYX Eyeshadow Single in Jade

I won this e/s in Mishi a la Mode's giveaway and I've been hooked to this color eversince. I normally don't wear green eyeshadows but this one is SO pretty. It really is a true Jade color with silver shimmers in it.

MAC Pressed Blot Powder

Love this! This is the perfect topping over the Dermablend foundation :) It's simple and absorbs excess oil. I just use it in the morning and it'll last all day. I like that it's pretty translucent, but I'm sure any drugstore blotting powder will do ;)

Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm in Natural Mint

I read about these lip balms in SO many blogs and decided to try it out. Omg, it's really an understatement how much I like this stuff. It's balmy, minty and absorbs into your lips without that feeling of something sitting on top of it. It's also nice because of the SPF 25 in it :) I love love love lip balms and I will need to dedicate a whole post on my collection =p

Have you tried any of these products? :)

My cat Bacon :)