Make the Outside Match the Inside: Beauty During Cancer Treatment

Hello everyone! Today, I will be sharing a post written by a guest blogger.

Jackie Clark does outreach for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, a leading web resource for mesothelioma cancer. She emailed me and asked if I would post her article, and I said yes. Like her, I also believe that all women need to feel beautiful, no matter what circumstances they may be facing. Some women who undergo cancer treatment have low self esteems, lose self confidence and sometimes get depressed on account of their external appearance. I hope that women all over will have an idea of what cancer patients go through and that it inspires women from all walks of life.

Women undergoing cancer treatments often suffer from decreased self-esteem.  Cancer therapies like radiation and chemotherapy can cause extensive hair loss and weight fluctuations. Persistent nausea and fatigue may make them feel ugly or undesirable. However, the strategic use of cosmetics and beauty products can help these women feel beautiful and strong in spite of their diagnosis. 

One common complaint from women undergoing cancer treatment is that these treatments make their skin dry and itchy.  It can appear red and irritated, almost as though they are sunburned.  Fortunately, there are many organic moisturizers on the market that can help to sooth and rehydrate problem skin.  Organic moisturizers contain all-natural ingredients, which, unlike synthetic moisturizers, will not irritate the particularly delicate skin of a woman undergoing cancer treatment.

Another great product for women undergoing cancer treatment is BB Cream.  Incredibly popular in Korea and now making its way West, BB Cream is a combination moisturizer, treatment, foundation and concealer.  These creams contain soothing botanicals and have healing properties to calm skin redness, and also provide great coverage without the need for additional foundation.

Cancer treatments sometimes cause women’s eyelashes to fall out.  However, a brown or black eyeliner pencil provides an easy fix!  Simply trace a thin line along the top of where the lash line was, and smudge gently with a cotton bud.  This creates an optical illusion that the eyelashes remain, without the hassle of applying false eyelashes.

Blush is an indispensible tool in any beauty arsenal, and pink or rosy tones are a great way to add life to sallow skin.  Focus the blush on the apples of the cheeks and lightly on the nose to brighten up the whole complexion.

Finally, a pretty lip gloss is a great way for a woman undergoing cancer treatment to spice up her look.  Women can experiment with bolder or richer colors that compliment their personality and make a statement.

For many women, a cancer diagnosis like mesothelioma is not only daunting, but the physical effects of treatment can make them feel unattractive.  However, such a diagnosis has no effect on who they are internally.  A way array of beauty products and cosmetics can help patients to look like their former selves, or to experiment with exciting new possibilities they may not have previously considered.  

By: Jackie Clark

I made this using Polyvore. These are some of the products Jackie mentioned. Of course these are just my suggestions, there are a variety of products to choose from.

Lastly, whether you have cancer or you do not; whoever you are, whatever situation you are in right now, remember to smile, because ---

"A smile is the best makeup a girl can wear."

Summer Makeup Kit ☀

I live in a country with only two seasons, as I may have previously stated that in another post before. The current weather and heat  makes me think of going to the beach so I am under the impression that summer season has officially kicked off. (Excuse me for the long post. Do let me know if you hate seeing long posts, such as this.) ☀

These may seem to be a bit much to other people, but these are the things that I'd take along just to feel comfortable. There are items that I may not use and would just bring along just in case the need to arises for whatever may come my way.

What I think:

The "no makeup, makeup" look  - A little color to conceal imperfections and bring out the best features of the face is the way to go. A big no to heavy makeup and too much contouring (of course I'll say this as I don't know how to contour. :P ); no to glitters but shimmers that make the skin appear healthier is fine.

SUMMER MUST HAVES: 

1. Sunblock/sunscreens - This doesn't even need an explanation. Everyone knows that we need to protect our skin, especially during hot summer days.

2. Products with SPF - Extra protection is always good. There are foundations, bb creams and lip products that have spf - these products are perfect for summer.

3. Multi purpose products - One product for several uses. Makeup items that have added skincare benefits while making us look and feel good. :)

Paul & Joe  L'Horizon Bleu LE Summer  2011 Makeup Bag and Pouch.

1. MAC Charged Water Skin Hydrating Mist 

Summer can make us dehydrated and harm our skin. I like to bring this and spray about one or two spritz; it to keep myself fresh. It does not ruin my makeup.

2. BECCA Luminous Skin Colour in Porcelain

Some might want to skip foundation because we do not want foundation sliding off our face during hot summer days. I would recommend a tinted moisturizer or BB cream because both serve as skincare products.  

3. Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA +++ UVA

My favorite sun block! May be used as a makeup base and makes the skin matte.

4. benefit erase paste in No. 2 medium

I don't use this daily but in case I need to conceal something such as eyebags, pimple or pimple marks I keep this in my makeup bag.

5. Haughty Perfect finish Lip Gloss in Believe

Gives a healthy sheen on the lips without looking too fake. Also provides moisture to the lips.

6. Majolica Majorca Lash Kind in BK999

Gives doll-like eyelashes. I usually don't wear eye shadow on a daily basis. I just like to line my eyes and use a good mascara to lift up my lashes so that my eyes will still stand out.

7. Full Glamour Gloss EX19 Tender Glow Pink

Another lip gloss that provides moisture to the lips; gives a healthy sheen without looking fake nor covering the real color of the lips.

8. benefit ooh la lift

No one wants to look like a vampire with dark, big eyebags. This brightens and lights up the face without glitters or shimmers that look unnatural. I also use this to highlight my brow bones.

9. benefit POWda WOWza

A bronzer that suits most skintones, plus two great blushes. What more can I ask for? It also has a very cute brush that's very travel friendly.

10. Clio Waterproof Pen Liner Kill Black

An eyeliner that stays put and doesn't budge - I use this for lining my eyes. As I previously stated, I usually just line my eyes and use a mascara. 

11. Majolica Majorca Brow Customize in Light Brown 

One end contains a slanted pencil for drawing or filling in eyebrows; while the other end contains a brow brush. It makes grooming brows easier!    

12. The Body Shop 13 Definer Shade in Burnished Amber 

In case I look sickly and want an extra pop of color, I use this on my waterline and as an eyeshadow. 

13. BECCA Beach Tint in Raspberry

Gives a very healthy glow and looks very natural on my skin; serves as a blush and a lip tint and is water-proof. Perfect for the beach!

14. dior addict lip glow

Gives a hint of Pink that looks healthy and natural on the lips, and has 10 SPF.

I have decided to add more items. Just to give more product choices; as you may find that these serve the same purposes as the products above do. And no, I don't carry all of these with me on a daily basis. 

Extra products that I may take or have in my makeup bag.

1. Etude House Aloha V-Line Slim Maker in #01 Sun Gold/ Wood Brown - another product that's dual purpose.

2. Lunasol Skin Contrast Face Powder 01 Glow - Just in case I want to set my makeup.

3.Kanebo Freshel Cover Concealer - Contains a concealer, pore cover and highlight.

4. benefit highbeam - for night outs. to highlight above my cheekbones.

5. benefit posietint - another tint that has a lovely pink color.

6. benefit benetint - a cult favorite. looks natural and stays put once applied.

7. Maybelline Long Extreme Stiletto Waterproof in Black - contains fibers. waterproof.

8. Neutrogena Fine Fairness BB Cream - to even out skintone. has added spf.

9. Caudalie Beauty Elixir  - I use this to freshen up in the middle of the day.

10. Physcians Formula  2 in 1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum in Ultra Black - waterproof. one of the blackest eyeliners I have used.

11. Tony Moly Perfect Eyes Eyeliner in 09 Tear Beige - for that extra pop of color to brighten the eyes.

12. Secret D'Or Eye Gloss Duo in 01 - just in case I need to look more polished or made up. 

13. Majolica Majorca Jeweling Pencil in 71 - same as with the other eye pencils.

14. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Pencil in Zero - for tightlining.

For Tools or makeup brushes, I bring multi-taskers such as these two brushes below:

BECCA Professional Brush 58 - Foundation and Concealer Brush (Review coming up soon!)

My new favorite brush. The bullet tip allows precise application for small areas such as the side of the nose and under the eyes. May be used for both liquid and cream products. 

Sigma F80 Flat Top Kabuki

May also be used for liquid and cream products! This is one of my all time favorite brushes.

You don't need to have the exact products for your makeup bag. I hope this post will be helpful to those who want to organize their makeup kits for summer.
I have linked previous product reviews. If there are any products that you are curious about which I may have featured in this post please leave a comment below.

What are your summer beauty kit essentials?

Kiehls - Cryste Marine Ultra Riche Lifting and Firming Cream (skincare diary)

I promised myself not to post about the same brand on one page so I'm going to review a product from Kiehl's!  Kiehl's skincare has been growing on me - Most of the skincare products I currently use are from them. I cannot help but rave about their products! Almost all my family members have also switched to Kiehl's because of me.

Kiehl’s Fact: The Criste Marine flower grows on rock formations aside the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its unique ability to boost cell renewal for a supple skin effect.

Claims:

•Superbly-rich cream to help improve skin’s firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines over time.

•Unusual water-absorbing spheres trap skin’s own water, causing the molecules to expand for an immediate lifting effect.

•Skin is replenished, looking and feeling instantly lifted with a renewed “bounce-back” quality. 

Kiehl's says, "Skin looks and feels instantly lifted and replenished."

OBSERVATION:

• Does not feel greasy once it sinks in to the skin. Although, it takes a while to get absorbed.
• A great product to use when massaging because it provides a smooth surface and does not quickly sink in. 
• Smells wonderful. The scent is relaxing.
• Does not irritate my skin nor break me out.
• You only need to apply a small amount of product because it's very concentrated.
• Lines on the areas I apply this product on have significantly diminished.

I will be posting an updated skincare routine soon. I usually use this after essence and serum at night on my face (should I feel that it's dry), my neck and decollete area. I only use a little amount of the product for it is rather thick and potent. I believe this jar will last me a very long time.

Consistency,  feels heavier and thicker than other creams I have used. I suppose that's why "Riche" was incorporated to the product name. It seems to be more concentrated. This is richer in texture than the other Cryste Marine cream; but it is easy to spread and is very moist.

- I'm not sure how much this product costs as it was given to me by a friend from the States. I am guessing that this would be around 2,000-3,000++Php

- I use and alternate this product with Philosophy's Hope in a Jar and L'Occitane's Divine Cream.

Should have posted this a long time ago. -_- Sorry!

Kiehl's Dermatologist Solutions Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate - skincare diary

The line eraser with 10.5% Vitamin C. As potent as Retinol without the sensitivity.

•Formulated with a 10.5% Pure Vitamin C, Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate is clinically-demonstrated to improve overall skin texture, tone and radiance while reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

•Superior results over Retinol at 8 weeks on skin texture, tone and lines and wrinkles. 

•Gives your skin a triple boost by stimulating collagen production, providing anti-oxidant protection and exfoliating skin to reveal healthier-looking skin. 

•Use both day and night under your ideal moisturizer. (source)

As we get older, we tend to get wiser and more wrinkly. :P  I'm not so sure if the former is applicable to everyone, but I am quite sure that the latter applies to most of us.

I am guilty of frowning a lot, I also smile and laugh a lot, so I guess it's pretty normal for me to have wrinkles fine lines around my age. (Actually, I blame all my wrinkles on law school. LOL! Kidding!)  The very lovely Blair requested for this review. She had asked me about it on Twitter. I think she has seen it on some popular Taiwanese show. :)

Directions: Cleanse and tone face first then apply 1-2 pumps as needed.

I only apply this to certain areas of my face such as my forehead and laugh lines. I usually layer this with other products and only apply it before I go to bed.

It comes in a simple Dark Brown bottle. The pump has  a stopper and can be swiveled from left to right to prevent product spillage. I should say, I love the pump because it doesn't dispenses the right amount of product! :)

Swatch 

It is creamy-white and goes on translucent. Blends and gets absorbed quickly once applied on skin. I have noticed that it turns into a tan-orange when it is exposed to air and not applied to skin. (Yes, I am that curious.) To the touch, it feels like a silicone based product so it does make the face smoother.

The scent is hardly traceable and faint, it does not bother me at all.

Goes on translucent and gets absorbed quickly.

It feels warm once applied on skin, though not a burning sensation; you will certainly feel a tingling and warm sensation, which should only last for a few seconds or so. It is gentle and should not sting. Well, unless of course you use it in sensitive areas like your eyes, then that will hurt.  

After application, the product gets absorbed and is no longer detectable to the naked eye.

A word of warning! Do not apply near the eye area. I have been told that it plumps skin, and might make your eyebags more visible and plumped. So avoid the eye area when using this product. (You will be sorry if you don't, as this product may sting your peepers.) 

I have also tried using this with makeup - As it makes the skin smooth, one can skip primer and just apply makeup over it. It does make the lines on my forehead less noticeable. While it might not help the lasting power of the makeup, I'd still say that it is a great primer because makeup goes over it smoothly. I usually use a liquid foundation on top of it. Just be sure to give it ample time to get absorbed by the skin before proceeding with foundation application.

I use about a pump and a half for my forehead and laugh lines. While the product may seem a bit expensive, I am pretty sure that it will last a long time, about six months or so. It might vary from consumer to consumer as you may use more product that I do. 

Overall, I am impressed with this product as I have been with Kiehl's other products! I have noticed that the lines on my forehead have been less visible since I started using this. I use it in conjunction with other skincare products which are mostly from Kiehl's. I find that the Dermatologist Solutions line does not break me out and keeps my skin soft and supple. I shall keep repurchasing this product because I am highly satisfied with the results. 

I hope I reviewed the right product for Blair. My mother used the Double Strength Deep Wrinkle Filler for specific areas with deep wrinkles. I assume that it is targeted towards older age groups.

An unexpected Haul

I said I would go on a shopping ban. I am trying to save up for gifts for my family and friends this Christmas and some things I wanted which aren't beauty related. I seriously don't need more makeup at the moment but shopping with my parents proved to be hard as they kept telling me to get things for myself. :P I don't like stressing myself or people around me so I obliged but proceeded with great caution. (Note the use of the word caution.)

My father will always be my favorite shopping buddy. He is the most generous person I know; he's always on a hurry, he would let me buy things so just I won't be a brat and waste his time.

Lipstick M in 003 Gotham

Everyone needs a gorgeous red color around this time of the year.

My 2nd ddung doll. :) I really want to collect these dolls because I find them really cute.

A gift set from Kiehl's.

My set was supposed to contain these items inside. 

I re-purchased Ultimate White Intensive Whitening Essence and received a bunch of travel sized samples. YAYYY!!!!!

Thank you duddy for buying everything for me. :3 Don't worry, I won't run off and leave with a guy very soon. 

A few nights ago, I showed my father a picture of my crush. He sternly told me that if I planned to marry someone like that, I ought to start working very hard and not stop because no amount of money will be enough to keep the guy around. -__- I asked him if he thought I looked like a monkey and he just smiled. HOW MEAN CAN HE BE? LOL! Up to now, he refuses to detract from his statement. GAAAHHHH!!! Hahahaha! :D

The Gift of Kiehl's!!!

Hello! I wanted to share this with everyone because I think it's a great deal. Those who have been wanting to try their products but are thinking twice because of the prize should check out this gift packs/kits:

For the boyfriend, your dad , your brother or any other guy you know is into skincare or would like to introduce to taking better care of their skin. 

For your friend or officemate.

For your mom, dad, grandmother or yourself. :) I've tested these products and both work really well! 

For those with sensitive skin. :)

For people with oily skin such as your younger sister or brother and friends.

 I totally recommend this set! :)

My review of Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA +++ UVA

For vain men - Yes, they do exist! 

Pore problems no more. :)

The total set for those with sensitive skin.

I also recommend this awesome set! :D 

My review of Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Remind me that I owe you a review of the Powerful Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate because that stuff is truly amazing! :)

A little of everything for a very special person that could be you too! :D

I scanned the leaflet that I got from Kiehl's. :) I  think this would make wonderful gifts to your loved ones and to yourself! HAHAHA! 

Last Saturday I went shopping with my father for gifts after a meeting. While we were in Greenbelt, he said he wanted to switch to Kiehl's because he thinks my skin as well as my mom's skin ha improved. I helped him shop for some skin and hair products and we purchased 2 "Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Kits". He told me to get what I wanted so don't blame me for buying. :P It's his fault for enabling me - I was trying very hard to resist. Just a while ago I opened my kit to take pictures but found that mine contained "The Creme de Corps Total Care" items which are also amazing but I really wanted to get the Ultra Light Daily UV Defense products. :(( I hope I can exchange the kit when I'm in Makati. :/ I'm seriously sad about it so I won't be posting my recent haul. (Yes, I'm that shallow sometimes. hehehe! I've been complaining to my dad and he said I should stop worrying and just return the items.)

I'm trying to locate the receipt! And if you follow my blog, you will know that I am not actually the most organized person on earth. I forget my camera at events sometimes and I tend to misplace things a whole lot. E.g. my laptop and other stuff.

Swap with MisoJenny

Everyone in the blogging world seems to indulge in swaps every once in a while. I have also a swap buddy from the USA. :) I consider her to be more than a swap buddy because we do chat about other things other than makeup. E.g: Her dog's name is Bobo, her bf is allergic to nuts, she usually visits her parents on the wekeends, etc.. Jenny's super sweet and fun to talk to.

She told me she wouldn't go over 1kg this time around as shipping is crazy expensive. It's a good thing she sent her package before I did because I had to go and get her more stuff because I absolutely felt guilty when I saw how much she sent me. Hence, I was late in sending her the package and I went over 2kgs LOL! xD 

YAY Urban Decay goodies - Urban Decay Eyeshadow Transforming Potion, Ink for the Eyes and Lipstick in Sellout.

She knows I love Kiehl's so she sent me - Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate, Lip Balm No. 1, Imperial Body Balm, Ultra Facial Cream and Cryste Marine - Lifting and Firming Cream.

Jenny loves Lancome and decided to share the love with me.

Coach perfume roller ball, Lancome single eyeshadow and Radiant Smoothing Eye Shadow Duo in Velvet Corail.

Korres Guava Lip Butter, Physicians Formula Liquid Eyeliner, Physicians Formula  Happy Booster Blush in Natural and Rocket City Lip Gloss.

Alpha Hydrox Anti-Wrinkle Cream and Shisheido Aqua Label Moisturizer

More skincare items to try! :)

Real Techniques Brush Set

Caudalie samples and a couple of Sexy Look - Hello Kitty masks. I have used the masks and I loved them so I placed an order for more online. =)

I hope Jenny likes everything I sent her as much as I liked all these wonderful things she sent me. I WUBBB YEWWW JENNY!!! <3 She's always so kind, thoughtful and generous. :3

Jenny is everywhere! LOL! Please follow and watch her if you haven't. :)

Youtube

Jenny's Blog

Facebook

Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA +++ UVA

Writing about sunblocks on October. 

You might wonder if we still need sunblock during the fall and winter months? My dermatologist says we still do, because the sun still shines all year round and our skin is still exposed to UV rays.

My favorite sunblock.

I instantly fell in love with this product after I received samples when I purchased some skincare products from Kiehl's a while back, but the price tag kept me from buying a tube. I later reasoned to myself that this product also makes a good makeup base. I did consider buying a tube, but my mom gave me one before I have gotten around to purchasing it. (YAY!)

Comes in a white that I like for it's simplicity and effectiveness. 

The product goes on smoothly and blends perfectly unto the skin.

PROS:
- Not greasy and does not feel sticky at all.
- Can be used under makeup or as a makeup base.
- Does not form into chunks and balls under makeup.
- The scent is subtle and does not bother me at all.
- Easy to blend and quickly absorbed by the skin.
- Did not break me out.


CONS:
- Besides the price I cannot think of any. The 30 ml tube costs around 1,900++Php and the 50ml tube is around 2,900++Php

OVERALL:
I love it! If you are looking for a good sunblock that works while not giving you that ton of gunk piled on your face feeling, I highly suggest that you give this a try.

Heads up! Kiehl's, Greenbelt is having a two day 15% off sale on October 22-23 on all items. Loyalty Club members gets the first dibs on the sale on October 21. :D

Kiehl's Eye Alert - Skincare Diary

I don't have under eye circles like other people, but I think it's about time to start preventing those from  appearing on my face. This is the first product I bought for my eyebags/under eyes so I will not be able to compare it with other products. 

Please know that I bought this product for prevention - I may not be able to address your queries if it works for dark circles. 

This is from Kiehls men's line. :P 

Energy Booster to Combat Puffiness and Dark Circles

I like that it's in a tube. :)

I bought it because:

1. I liked the texture which is light when I tried the tester.

2. I like the packaging. (Yes, that has a serious impact on the things I buy, really.)

I use that much for both my under eye area.

TIPS:

- May be used day and night since it's easily absorbed by the skin.

- I use my ring finger to apply - lightly tap it under my eyes and gently swipe in a sideways motion towards my temples.

PROS:

- Easily absorbed, dries quickly.

- Light weight. Almost feels like gel.

- I like the packaging because it's easy to travel with and it's sanitary.

- A little goes a long way with this product. You only need half a pea size of it for both your under eye area/s.

- Product lasts months and may last up to a year.

- Has a mild cooling sensation which I like.

- Subtle cucumber-like scent. 

CONS:

- May seem to be a bit expensive (but it will really last for a long time.)

OVERALL:

I have been insomniac and nocturnal for as long as I can remember. I would not say that this has really improved my under eye area because I still see eyebags when I don't get sleep. I can't also say it helps prevents puffy eyes because I think my eyes were still swollen even after I used this when I cry. However, due to the cooling sensation it has it might help alleviate it although I haven't really noticed any difference. 

I would say however, that since I started using this product the lines under my eyes have been significantly reduced and the skin under my eyes doesn't get dry as much as it used to. So it really is a great moisturizer for under the eye area. We all know that we can't put normal moisturizers under our eyes because our skin is more sensitive on that area. 

I'm still on the fence with this product but will finish the whole tube. :)

Do you use a separate moisturizer for your under eye area too?