&Follow SJoin OnSugar
A place for me to share all my make-up ramblings...enjoy!

About Me

e-mail

themakeupblogette@hotmail.com

My name is Sophia!

BLOGLOVIN

Follow on Bloglovin

Follow @makeup_blogette on Instagram

Twitter Me!

Follow makeup_blogette on Twitter

Tags

FAQ & DISCLAIMER

About Me

My name is Sophia, and I am in my early 30s. I am from Singapore and I am the sole writer of this blog.

About this Blog

I started this blog in 2006, I like to use a wide range of brands though I seem to have a growing preference for higher-end brands in recent years. I also like to share interesting things I have come across about makeup and beauty.

Currently The Makeup Blogette receives 39,000 unique views monthly or 2,238,932 views and counting.

My Makeup Style

I like classic looks (neutral tones on eyes, anything goes for lips & cheeks), though occasionally I try out dramatic/ statement looks.  I believe that a flawless base is the key to achieving great makeup looks.  I also believe that if you don't have great skin to start with, fake it with a good foundation routine, and even greater skincare.  I am currently loving Clarins & Lancome skincare products, and Vichy NormaDerm for tackling with breakouts.

What Cameras do I use?

Most of the pictures you see in post 2010 entries are taken with my Canon G-11.  Previously I was using Canon Ixus 80.  I do post some pictures which are taken with my iphone4 which I will state in that particular entry.  I have stopped watermarking my pictures as of 2011, because I think watermarks are ugly in general, and does not prevent people from stealing my pictures if they wish to.  I just take it as a compliment that my pictures are even worth stealing in the first place. I might look into getting a Canon EOS next year, not just for blogging purposes, but I also like photography in general.

My Favourite Makeup Brand(s)

It is hard to name just one, but I like NARS, Chanel, Illamasqua and the ocasional Guerlain, Dior & Urban Decay item.  I own quite a stash of MAC items, but recently I have stopped catching up with their collections, and I much prefer to splurge on a few really outstanding items.

Where to find me

Twitter (link button above!)  Email (stated above!)  Instagram (makeup_blogette)

I have no official Facebook fan page, and currently have no intention to start one at all.  The Makeup Blogette remains my personal hobby and property, so as such, I don't believe in having a Facebook fanpage for it.

Final Disclaimer

I bought/ paid for all of the products mentioned in this blog. I am not affliated to any company. If certain products are sent to me for review purposes, I will say so and express my honest opinions about them. In any case, I will only review and showcase the products which I have personally tried and tested, and enjoy using. I do not get paid to review anything.

No ads, no paid links etc please.  I am in charge of all content and pictures here.

I am not a makeup artist, nor do I have any professional training in makeup.

 

Archive

Archives

May 2013
SMTWTFS
 1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
262728293031 
April 2013
SMTWTFS
 123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
282930 
March 2013
SMTWTFS
 12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31 

    Email |
    |
    November 28, 2012

    Philosophy's First Concept Store in Asia at Tangs Orchard


    Nov 2012 - Philosophy opens its first concept store in Singapore. Inspired by the brand's values of mixing a scientific approach to skincare with inspirational messages, philosophy has garnered a devoted following around the world. 

    Based on a library theme, the new 'shop in shop' will entice you to enter the wonderful world of philosophy and experience the products at their own pace.  By blending new technology, digital elements and the traditional library spirit, philosophy creates a delightful interactive environment that is truly unique. 

    The concept store will offer an exclusive service area where you can try different products at the philosophy peel bar and get advice from beauty experts.  You can also catch up on the latest innovative content through the interactive 'magic book' (pictured above). 

    Through this unique environment, philosophy is wishing to tell a new story in Asia by offering its customers innovative services for a truly engaging experience. 

    More photos: 




    and this Christmas item is on my wishlist: 

    Filed in: Philosophy, tangs orchard | Tagged with: Philosophy, Tangs Orchard
    Email |
    |
    October 01, 2012

    My Shower Essentials

    Hi hi!

    A quick entry to show you what I rotate and use in the shower.  Not to worry, I won't go into the very TMI details of what goes where and the hows or what.  Basically, I just want to provide some quick overall thoughts on some shower and bodycare products which I don't often mention on the blog, but I do use on quite a regular basis. 

    Firstly, in the shower:  I have a whole bunch of shower shampoos, I usually prefer shower shampoos as opposed to bar soaps... cos I find bar soaps hard to store, and they slip everywhere.  I have several of them in use at any one time, and these are some which I have been using for a while.  I am suckered by scents first and foremost.  Anything that smells yummy, I want to use.  But my staples are The Body Shop olive shower gel... they lather well, smells olive-y (which I happen to love).  I always stock up on these whenever there are discounts. 

    Some some days, I use the Lush Snow Fairy, which is LE, and so I use it sparingly.  On other days, I go between the Philosophy Melon Daiquiri and Vanilla birthday cake.  Both smells really sweet, but I am not the biggest fan of the 'soapy' feel after rinsing.  I can live with that, just because I love the scents on these. 

    Next, are a whole slew of body scrubs.  I love body scrubs.. and I mainly only use them on my calves, and arms.  I don't use them anywhere else, cos that would be too abrasive.  I recently tested a range of body scrubs as part of Tang's beauty journal, so I had the chance to use these, and my faves are the Origins Modern Friction for the Body, and the Clarins Smoothing Body Scrub.  I love the scrub beats on these, they are the natural scrub beats, not synthetic beads.  And they are also coarser, which I love, cos I usually think of finer scrubs for the face.  On the body, I want something more 'intensive'.  But the overall winner would be the Origins one, cos the scent reminds me of a totally relaxing spa treatment.  Both the Shiseido and Biotherm ones are gentle body scrubs, which I guess would be suitable for sensitive skin. 

    My bonus treat for body scrub would be my Laura Mercier creme brulee sugar scrub.  It contains sugar scrub beats, as the name suggests, and smells delicious, like Baileys, caramel.. hmmmmm, but I usually decant this into a smaller tub to use in the bathroom to prevent breakage and mess.  It is sticky, gooey, and really exfoliating.  I highly recommend the Laura Mercier bodycare products if you have access to them.  I bought mine in Taiwan.

    I usually like to follow up with a body oil especially after I scrub... and I really much prefer body oils.  I have mentioned most of these in an earlier entry of my current faves before.... but it's worth mentioning which ones I really do like. 

    1. Best affordable and efficient body oil - BIO OIL --- because it is not too thick, and easily absorbed.  I used to use this very regularly on my calves where I have some scars, and they have faded quite a bit.  I like to leave this close to my bed, in case I want to use it as a hand cream at night too. 

    2. Most light and easy to use -- THE BODY SHOP OIL --- the formula is very watery, it is lightly scented, and moisturises very well.  There is no icky oily feeling on your skin after its absorbed.  

    3. Most indulgent and nourishing -- CLARINS treatment oil - this is very rich, and one days when I really want to pamper myself, I would use the Clarins oil. 

    4. Most awesome smelling -- Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom and Honey bath oil - this is pricey, but so worth it.  The smells stays the whole day, your skin feels soft, and it's just really fantastic. 

    5. Great for everyday - NIP FAB Multi-fix Oil - again, this quite light in consistency, like the body shop one, and is a great basic body oil which is also quite affordable. 

    I also included the Avene thermale spray, because I only use the Jo Malone bath oil while I am in the shower, and I rub it into my wet just showered skin, followed by normal towel dry.  When I am already in my room, or whenever I want to moisturise my body, or when I feel the air con is especially drying, I would spray my arms and legs with the Avene spray, and then I will rub my choice of oil on the damp area, in order to not just refresh my skin, but also emulsify the oils for instant absorption.  I learnt this trick from reading one of Front Row Beauty's blog entries sometime back.  Most useful tip!

    Someones I use creams too, such as the NIP FAB cellulite fix, and the dry legs fix.  But I don't use them regularly enough to provide much comments, except that I do like the scent, and the texture, because both are very easily absorbed into the skin.   (I think my fave NIP FAB products would be their hand cream, and the multi-fix oil). 

    I hope this has been helpful, and I might do a haircare overview entry soon! 

    Hope this has been helpful, and thanks for reading!

    Email |
    |
    February 19, 2012

    NEW Philosophy to Launch in Singapore this April

    Hi!

    This past week, I had the chance to attend the press launch for Philosophy and I give an overview of the brand and some star products in this entry.  I am pretty sure Philosophy is a brand that many of you are familiar with, if I recall, True Colors stocks a very very selected range of Philosohy products.  And maybe there are some of you who are already regular Philosophy users if you get access to their products.  Personally, I was a fan of their Hope in a Jar 5 or 6 years back, when I saw this brand in Hong Kong, and I bought back ups of their star product to use.  Over time, I weaned away from it, because it was just getting a little tiresome to keep stocking up and I also moved on to other skincare brands.

    Regardless, I am quite excited that Philosophy is launching here in Singapore.  It will be available from 27 April at all Sephora Stores in Singapore.  I don't have full price information and details, but the distributors have informed us that their price range is kept very reasonable, and as a brand, they are in similar price point of brands like Clinique and Khiels.  Another good news is that, they are bringing in all four categories of their products (and not just the skincare which is the foundation of the company).

    I shall now proceed to give a quick overview of the four chapters of Philosophy products:

    Chapter One -- SKINCARE --

    Philsophy is a mix of innovative formulas and musings on life and love - a fresh point of view, and when you use Philosophy products, it is a unique experience.  In the US, it is the fourth biggest selling brand and in 2010, the fastest selling in Sephora and TV shopping channel QVC.

    A few of their key products:

    HOPE IN A JAR

    It is a high performance moisturiser for all skin types.  It helps to reduce the appearance of dull skin, rough texture and dehydration.  (Oprah Winfrey listed hope in a jar among her top ten favourite things 6 times from 1996 - 2010).

     

    PURITY - 3-in-1 cleanser for face and eyes

    This is an award winning 3-in-1 cleanser for face and eyes that removes makeup, cleanses, tones and lightly hydrates the skin, all in one simple step.  It rapidly dissolves dirt, oil and makeup, while helping to maintain the skin's proper moisture levels.  It is gentle enough for use around the eye area and on sensitive skin.  It is formulated with 12 essential oils to help calm and soothe skin.

    MIRACLE WORKER

    These are miraculous anti-aging retinoid pads that deliver youthful, radiantly luminous skin in one easy step.  This fresh-pour, skin-restoring elixir is formulated with hpr next-generation retinoid technology that helps maximises skin's rejenvation potential, while minimising the risk of irritation commonly associated with traditional retinols.

    Features:

    diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, dramatically improves skin discoloration and promotes flawless clarity

    loaded with anti-oxidants, skin conditioners and soothers to deliver miraculous results

    We also got to experience several of their products during the event, including:

    the "turbo booster c powder" a high-potency vitamin c powder that helps prevent premature aging by acting as an anti-oxidant and supporting natural collagen, helpiing to improve skin's overall tone.

    their "microdelivery peel" - touted as the 3 minute skin makeover.  this is a two-step in-home peel that dramatically rejuvenates the appearance of sun-damaged, hyperpigmented and aging skin.  it helps to resurface and replenish the skin with peptides and vitamin c, so skin feels significantly smoother and appears radiant

    CHAPTER TWO -- FRAGRANCE --

    Philosophy has four fragrances - which have ultra clean notes that are easy to wear and designed to enhance your sense of well-being.  They also come with a full range of matching bath products.

    amazing grace - clean floral scent

    pure grace - soap and water clean fragrance, like you just stepped out of the shower

    eternal grace - classic clean, crisp notes, along with delicate florals and bright citrus

    inner grace -  sophisticated, soft floral scent


    CHAPTER THREE -- Bath & Body --

    The section of the launch that got everyone of us the most excited, most likely because of the divine, seriously delicious scents and colorful bottles of bath products.  I was told the largest bottle - as shown in the pic below, will retail for S$29.90.  If that's correct, I am so grabbing all of them come April 27!!!

    the melon daiquiri and be somebody are my fave scents among those I got to sniff.

     

    CHAPTER FOUR -- GIFTING --

    Because life is beautiful and everyday is a gift, celebrate life's moments with these gift sets which are available year-round.

    Overall, I am quite excited for this launch, and I think it would be one of the more popular brands at Sephora (yes, I think so!).

     

    Can't wait for April!

     

    Shall end this entry with some lovely cupcakes pictures!

     

     

     

    That's all, and thanks for looking!