Review: Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer / UPDATE

Hello, beauties!

Before I proceed to the review, I just want to remind everyone to join my giveaway sponsored by SkinMD Naturals!

I'm sorry I haven't blogged in awhile, since I was really busy with field work, thesis, and all that jazz... And lately, my family is going through a tough time, because my grand father had a heart attack and he's now in the ICU and he's still not conscious for several days... Please pray for my grand father's recovery...

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This a review of the Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer.

You might remember from my last haul that I bought a Laura Mercier flawless face kit, and it contains a Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer (Original Formula), and you might wonder why I still bought the oil free version...

Well, first of all the original formula while it did gives a sheer coverage that diminish the look of blemishes a bit, it is still not enough to neutralize the redness in my cheeks. The original formula tends to make my skin more oily through out the day, and I find that it slides off specially in humid conditions. Even with that, I would definitely still recommend it to drier skin types, since it's lightweight, have a decent sheer coverage for a tinted moisturizer, and though it's not oil free it didn't broke out.

After researching online, I found some reviews about the oil free version. People say that it gives a bit more coverage than the original version, and yes, I do agree on that! The original formula gives a sheer, light coverage, while this one gives a light-medium coverage. I really like that it's as lightweight as the original formula even with the added coverage. 

I also love the fact that it also adds moisture to the skin to a certain extent. I find that many tinted moisturizer doesn't add moisture, but is just like a really sheered out liquid foundation. My skin seems to really like it too, since I haven't broke out.

 I find that the oil free formula didn't do much in the oil control department. It didn't made me oilier, but it didn't control my oiliness either.

The oil free formula gives a REAL dewy finish like the original version, meaning the dewiness is due to the formula not because there were fine shimmer added in like other tinted moisturizers have...

I also notice that this is much more long wearing than that of the original formula. But maybe it's just because I'm oily skinned, and oil free formulas definitely last longer in my type of skin.

I must note that, both the oil free and original formulas are best applied using fingers, synthetic paddle foundation brush (like MAC 190), and flat top synthetic brush. If you use your natural brushes, the brush will most likely just eat up the product. I tried using the MAC 109 and 187, but I noticed, it didn't spread the product evenly. I personally like applying it with my paddle foundation brush and ELF Studio Powder Brush, since I really don't like staining my hands with foundation. But basically, it really depends on what tools you prefer.

I also like that it's in a squeeze tube, so you can really get all the product out and it's hygienic!

I bought this for P1850 (about $37) at Rustan's, and I think it's pricey for a tinted moisturizer, but it's the best I've tried...

Verdict:

I really like the LM Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer!

But because of it's price, and no oil control properties...

7/10

I would repurchase this if I do run out, but I'll still be in a search for a cheaper alternative...

I want try the CoverGirl and Olay soon and see if it may be dupes....

Tips:

For a longer wear, set it with powder.

I personally love using the Laura Mercier Mineral Pressed Powder, because it still retains the dewiness.

I also suggest letting it sink in for atleast 2 minutes before setting it with powder, because if the face is too damp/moist, the tendency is the powder will look cakey and it will emphasize pores and fine lines...

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BTW I ordered from Sigma Makeup, and Coastal Scents, including the HD Foundation and some brushes... I'll show you what I ordered once it arrives and expect a review!

BTW do you want tutorials, EOTD's, to see my nail polish/makeup collection or do you want me to review something?

Just comment below and I'll try my best to fulfill your requests!

SkinMD Natural Shielding Lotion GIVEAWAY!

I'm really thankful for being chosen by SkinMD Natural to try out their Shielding Lotion.

The SkinMD Natural Shielding Lotion is definitely a skin-saver.

With just a few weeks of use, my skin is definitely on it's top condition!

No more peeling, flaking, and cracking skin!

Plus get that moisture without the greasy feel!

I'm also thankful that one of my reader will have an opportunity to test out this amazing product without paying anything! Thanks SkinMD Naturals!

The rules are simple:

1. Be a follower

2. Post this giveaway in your blog

3. Visit http://www.skinmdnatural.com

4. Comment on this post one thing you learned about the shielding lotion

Giveaway ends Feb. 2, 2010!

OPEN WORLDWIDE!

Product Find/Rave/Review: Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion

This is a review of the Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion.

Disclaimer: Though this was sent to me, expect that I will review the product honestly and unbiasedly. My opinion about the product was not influenced by anyone or any company for that matter or the fact that this sent to me for free. In respect with the company, I have no affiliation with Skin MD Natural. This was sent for me for review, and I was as given liberty to give my own opinion about the product, and I won't review a product unless if it was requested by a reader of my blog in sponsored products that I don't believe in.

Last year, December 17 to be exact, I was contacted by Mr. Carlo Verde, a PR Representative of Skin MD Natural, if I would like to try out the Shielding Lotion and review it in my blog. Since I'm allergic to products containing mineral oil, and I have a hard time finding body lotions/moisturizers which doesn't contain mineral oil that works, specially on my super dry elbows. So, I agreed. I received the PR Kit on January 4, 2010, and I have been testing it out ever since.

This is what the PR Kit looks like:

The Kit includes the following:

• 2 brochures of the Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion
• 2 sachets of Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion Original Formula
• 1 sachet of Skin MD Shielding Lotion + Sunscreen SPF15
• 1 bottle of Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion (120mL / 4oz)

What Skin MD Natural says:

" Skin MD Natural is a shielding lotion, a very special type of lotion helping the skin restore its integrity, enhance its protective functions so that the skin is able to heal naturally and regain its youthful appearance. Skin MD Natural works by bonding with cells of the skin's outermost layer to form what works as an invisible shield. This layer of protection prevents environmental irritants and pollutants from penetrating the skin, while sealing in the skin's own natural oils and moisture, helping resolve the dry skin condition.

Skin MD Natural uses only the finest natural ingredients, and is focused on urging the skin to be active, and to use its own moisture to effectively heal itself. It is not oily or sticky, doesn't sit on top of your skin leaving a greasy residue on everything you touch, it doesn't rub or wash off easily, is hypoallergenic, fragrance, colorant and paraben free and dermatology tested. "

I am a constant user of 70% ethyl alcohol ever since I can remember, so my hands are left dried out. Since I was a child I have really dry and dark elbows, and my elbows are really prone to peeling and flaking and until now it's still one of my biggest skin problem. I have tried so many lotions but the conditions of my hands and elbows didn't get any better. Plus, the fact that I have bad reactions to products with mineral oil didn't helped. 

I must say I'm really impressed with this product! 

I have really have no regret on saying yes to Mr. Carlo Verde's offer for me to try this product out!

The Shielding Lotion looks like your traditional lotion with its white semi-translucent formula.

But unlike most lotions in the market, this is fragrance free and derived from natural ingredients. It's also paraben free. What I really like about this product is that no other lotion that I have tried is as light weight and sinks to the skin as easily as this product does. This lotion is best of all non-greasy! I have used this for a bit more than a week and I can feel the difference already! At the first 3 to 4 days of using this, I need to reapply in my hands for every 4 hours but after that I only need to apply once in the morning and once before I go to bed. I also noticed that my hands are not as dry as  before, and my hands feels naturally softer and smoother. My elbows experience less flaking too! I'll do an update if the flaking/peeling problem completely gets resolved within the use of this product or if there would be no more improvement or what not. 

I also used this product in my face as a moisturizer. I really like it too, since it doesn't feel greasy and it sinks to the skin quickly. Actually, this product feels like the Laura Mercier mineral primer and the oil free primer. When I used this product, I didn't notice any change in the wear of makeup. I use this product as a moisturizer and I use this in replacement of my Laura Mercier Primer (original formula), since the LM Primer in orginal formula broke me out, when I use my Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer.

You can get yours at www.skinmdnatural.com

$18 for 4oz or 120mL.

The price is a bit expensive, but I personally think it's worth every penny!

I'll definitely purchase one soon!

Sis Nikki (Askmewhats), I think you'll love this product! 

My Verdict:

8.5/10 (Due to the price. There's always room for improvement!)

I'll update you guys 3 weeks from now about this product!

I'll also review the one with SPF15 soon!

Plus, look out for a giveaway sponsored by Skin MD Natural one of these days.

Product Find/Rave/Review: Avon MagiX Tinted Face Perfector

Before anything else, this is your last chance to enter my giveaway!

This is a review of the Avon MagiX Tinted Face Protector.

It's been a year since I first tried this product.

I've been meaning to review this product, but it's just now that I remembered hahaha ;)

Spoiler: I really like it! :)

What Avon says:

" On-the-go compact. Visibly minimizes pores witih patent-pending Optix Light-Diffusing Technology. Holds back shine for up to 10 hours. Reduces the look of fine lines...skin feels softer than ever. Shades adapt to your skin tone...like magic! Sheer Coverage. Natural matte  "

Packaging: Sleek black square compact and has a mirror. The compact can be opened into two compartments. The top compartment is where it product is, and the bottom is where the sponge provided is kept.

Texture: This product has a quite unique texture. It feels like it's a gel/cream formula but silicone based. I really like that it's lightweight, and goes on seamlessly. However, due to it's unique texture, there isn't a brush that works as well as a sponge when using this product.

Anther thing I like about this product that it provides a light coverage. It cancels out redness well and conceals blemishes nicely. It also diminish the look of pores and lines. Lately, I've been using it alternatively with my tinted moisturizer. Another thing I like is that this product is multipurpose. You can use it like tinted moisturizer or a foundation primer! Foundation goes on smoothly over this. The product also contains SPF 15, a nice added sun protection, but I still recommend using a separate sunscreen of atleast SPF 30. 

The product gives a nice slightly dewy finish, but not overly shiny!

A plus for me is that it's formated to keep up with oily skin! It keeps my oils at bay for about 4 to 5 hours.

This product, I must add, has a fresh aloe vera scent similar of that of SkinFood Aloe BB Cream.

Avon only offers few shades, so not everyone can find a match, but due to it's sheerness, it's very much forgivable.

Verdict: 8/10

I really likey!

For just about P400-500 from your local Avon lady, I suggest trying this nice multipurpose product!

Proof that I really like the product:

This is my second compact, which I'm almost done! I'll definitely repurchase!

The Hit List Best of 2009

How are you all doing all my blogger friends? How was your New Year? Before everything else, I want to greet everybody a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

and don't forget to enter my giveaway!

I'm writing to share to you the products that worked best for me for 2009.

I'm also writing this to help out those, who are starting out with make up and wanted to know what products I recommend. I'll also try my best to include more affordable options for the high end products I have on the list...

DISCLAIMER: What works on me may not work out for you.

I have oily combination and slightly sensitive skin. I react badly to products with mineral oil.

SKINCARE HIT LIST:

Hit Facial Cleanser: Clinique Liquid Soap for Oily Skin

Runner Up: Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub

Hit Toner: Clinique Clarifying Lotion/Toner #3

Runner Up: Ponds Anti-Acne Toner

Sekkisei Seikisho Toner

Hit Moisturizer: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

Runner Up: Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

Hit Eyes/Lips Makeup Remover: Lancome Bifacil

MAC Pro Eye Makeup Remover

The Face Shop Herb Clear Eyes & Lips Makeup Remover

Hit MultiPurpose Makeup Remover (Face, Eyes, Lips): Loreal Dermaq Expert Makeup Remover

Hit Facial Wipes: Kirkland Makeup Removing Wipes

Kandoo Baby Wipes

Hit Facial Mist: Shu Uemura Depsea Water Mist

Runner Up: Evian Mist

Hit Sunscreen: MAC Prep&Prime Face Potection Visage SPF50

Shu Uemura UV Armour SPF40

Hit Lipbalm: La Mer The Balm

Runner Up: Carmex in Squeeze Tube and Jar

MAKEUP HIT LIST:

BASE MAKEUP

Hit Primer: MAC Prep&Prime Face Protection Visage SPF50

MUFE All Mat

Clinique Pre Minimizing Instant Perfector

Runner Up: Avon MagiX Tinted Face Perfector

Hit Liquid Foundation (High End): Kryolan High Definition Mattifying Liquid Foundation

Shu Uemura Face Architect Fluid Foundation

Shiseido Sun Protection Foundation SPF40

Hit Liquid Foundation (Drugstore): Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation

Hit Cream Foundation (High End): Shu Uemura Nobara Foundation

Graftobian Glamour Creme High Definition Foundation

Hit Cream Foundation (Drugstore): Max Factor Miracle Touch Foundation

Hit Powder Foundation (High End): MUFE DUO MAT

Hit Powder Foundation (Drugstore): Maybelline Clear Smooth Extra Powder Foundation

Hit Pressed/Loose Setting Powder (High End): MAC MSF Natural

Clinique Loose Powder (01)

Hit Pressed/Loose Setting Powder: Maybelline Clear Smooth Pressed Powder

Hit UnderEyes Concealer: Desange Cernes Expert Eye Smoothing Concealer

Laura Mercier Secret Concealer

Hit Blemish Concealer: MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer

EYE MAKEUP

Hit E/S Primer: UDPP

Hit Eyeshadow (High End) : NARS E/S

Shu Uemura E/S

Runner Up: MAC E/S

Hit Eyeshadow (Drugstore) : Maybelline Eyestudio Palettes

Hit Pencil Eyeliner: Maybelline 2in1 Impact Shadow Eyeliner

Runner Up: Stila Kajal Eyeliner

Hit Liquid Eyeliner: Loreal SuperLiner

Hit Gel/Cream Eyeliner: MakeUp Masala Gel Eyeliner

Runner Up: MAC Fluidline

Hit Brow Makeup: Revlon Brow Fantasy

Hit Mascara: Maybelline VolumExpress Cat Eyes Mascara

MAC Plush Lash

Lumene Blueberry Curl

Runner Up: Fairy Drops Mascara

Hit Cream/Liquid Eyeshadow: P&J Eye Gloss

CHEEKS

Hit Blush: NARS Blushes (Mata Hari, Torrid)

Runner Up: MAC Blushes (Pink Swoon, Peaches, Blush Baby)

Countouring Powder: MAC MSF Natural in Deep

Runner Up: MAC Sculpt and Shape

LIPS

Hit Lip Liner: MAC Lip Liner in Subculture

Hit Lip Pimer: MAC Prep&Prime Lips

Hit Lipstick: YSL Rouge Volupte

Runner Up: Coffret D'Or Lipstick

Hit Lipgloss: Urban Decay Pocket Rocket

Chanel Glossimer (Gold Light)

MAC Dazzleglasses

Runner Up: MAC Cremesheen Glass

Stila Lipglaze

TOOLS:

Hit Liquid / Cream Foundation Brush: Shu Uemura 18 foundation brush

Runner Up: ELF Studio Powder Brush

NARS Botan Brush

Hit Concealer Brush: MAC 217

Hit Eyeshadow Brush: MAC 239

MAC 217

Hit Powder Brush: Suesh Powder brush

Hit Lip Brush: Suesh Lip Brush

Hit Blush Brush: MAC 165

MAC 109

Hit Eyeliner Brush: Smashbox Eyeliner brush (from the brush set with brushes of white synthetic fibers and lucite handles)

Hit Eyelash Curler: Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

Hit Palette: Koji Foundation Palette

Hit Makeup Tool: Glambox Airbrush System