Product Review: WIKO T10- We Cool with WIKO

     Looking for a new phone with a large battery capacity, that can capture decent and nice photos with big storage for a very affordable price? I gotchu!!! This European brand of smartphones got you covered. When I first heard of the brand, I was a bit skeptical because of the price. I've owned a couple of budget smartphones way back in the same price range but the features of WIKO T10 is at par when it comes to battery, camera, and design.

     WIKO is a consumer electronics company based in France. Dedicated to creating smartphones and ecological scenario-driven products for the young generation and internet users, WIKO values innovative technology, aesthetic design, and superb user experiences. So if you are planning to buy a smartphone for gifting this holiday season or you simply want to have an extra phone, WIKO T10 is for you. The price is also perfect for gifting your techie friends and loved ones. Sharing my thoughts after road-testing this unit and discover why it's dubbed as the French Iconic Entertainment Phone for the Gen Z after the jump.

Product Review: WIKO T10- We Cool with WIKO

Product Review: OPPO A16- The Smart Choice

     It has been ages since I last reviewed a smartphone and in time for the holiday season (checks gift list), I can say that this phone from OPPO's A series line fits the bill if you are planning to buy a gift for your techie friends or loved ones. Aside from the phone's specs and features, OPPO is a brand that I highly recommend and trust. I reviewed two OPPO smartphone models years ago that truly deliver in terms of quality and price.

     So today, let me share my thoughts on one of OPPO's A series smartphones- OPPO A16. This model from the A series is an entry-level smartphone under P10,000 and after testing it for more than two weeks, I can say that it packs a punch on features that's why it's the smart choice for everyone. 

Product Review: OPPO A16- The Smart Choice 

Feature: Rosy Peel Plus

     Photoaging or the damage the sun does to the skin can result in wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots and melasma and overall early aging. As much as we love the sun, we do not like what it can do to our skin.

Excessive sun exposure can dry your hair and even burn your scalp. Harmful effects of the sun can be avoided by always wearing sunscreen when going out and protective clothing if you know you’re going to be exposed for long periods of time. Avoid sun exposure from 10am to 3pm because this is when sunburn-causing ultraviolet rays are at their strongest.

     Aside from outer protection, nourishing the body from the inside can help. Vitamin C is one of the vitamins that I religiously take every day. I’ve tried different brands before and one of them is Rosy Peel- a natural vitamin c supplement that contains fruit extracts. Fast forward today, it's making a comeback as Rosy Peel Plus. Now with a boost of collagen, this all-natural supplement is here to give you a healthier, younger and brighter skin plus a boost in summer protection so your skin and hair stay healthy in any weather. More information about Rosy Peel Plus after the jump!

Feature: Rosy Peel Plus

Love at First Sight with the NEW ASUS ZenBook 14 UX425EA (11th Gen Intel)

     My first blogging laptop is ASUS K555L, an entry laptop model that was launched six years ago. I have no regrets about choosing this brand because I've tried and tested its performance and durability for a long time already. Fast forward today, ASUS has launched new laptop models from its ZenBook series. When I first saw this laptop, I said to myself that it's time to upgrade to a more portable one. Don't get me wrong, I still love my ASUS laptop. It's still working fine and can do a lot of things up to this day. I never had problems when it comes to performance or hardware issues. But it's also nice to do an upgrade, especially if buying a new laptop will help me stay motivated and keep my productivity high as I work easy using this baby that's boasting timeless beauty and effortless portability.

     In a world full of uncertainty, there's one thing that's certain when it comes to technology and all things laptop. Say hello to the World's thinnest 14" laptop with QHD Display powered by 11th Gen Intel Core processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics- The all-new ZenBook 14 (UX425EA) – a 14-inch ultraportable laptop now packed with more power and speed, advancing productivity and creativity wherever, whenever. It's love at first sight! ZenBook 14 is so light, compact, and pretty on the outside but it's powerful and incredible on the inside. Read more about my favorite features of this beauty after the jump!

Love at First Sight with the NEW ASUS ZenBook 14 UX425EA (11th Gen Intel)

Feature: Vaseline Daily Tone Up Sun Cream SPF40

     One of the downsides of living in a tropical country is the humidity. In the Philippines, being under the sun is something we experience regardless of the season.  However, the summer months bring on harsher heat and dry weather that even indirect sunlight can cause sunburn and skin damage. That's why when I became meticulous in my skincare regimen years ago, I make sure that I have different sunscreens in my stash. Sunscreen is life for me. 

     That's why here in our country, where we certainly experience the scorching heat of the sun even if it's rainy season, we're always on the lookout for a sunscreen that not only protects our skin from this but is also lightweight, so we can avoid the sticky, uncomfortable feeling, especially in humidity. Whether we’re out by the beach, getting Vitamin D during a workout, or even indoors by a window, sunscreen is a skincare must-have all year round. Vaseline, a skincare brand known for its healing properties, has launched its first-ever sun care product, Vaseline Daily Sun Care to keep your skin protected and hydrated from within. More information about the product after the jump.

Feature: Vaseline Daily Tone Up Sun Cream SPF40

NEED: Canon Inspic S and Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera

     After five years, the much-needed blogging/vlogging gears upgrade happened last month. The decision did not happen overnight but thinking of what brand to get is a no-brainer because it's like the song "Always Been You" by Imajin, hahaha! There are a couple of brands to consider but Canon has always been in my mind and in my heart. It's what my vlogger friends use and recommend especially if you are looking for a super nice camera to take photos and shoot videos for online content creation. No wonder why the infamous Canon Powershot G7 X Mark is dubbed as the "most recommended vlogging camera" by beauty and lifestyle vloggers when the rise of video content hit the Philippine shores some years ago.

     Fast forward today, I finally get a hold of these babies that I'll be using to create high-quality content in this blog and in our vlogs (my husband is a content creator too a.ka. Pinoy Drunken Chef). Since we are going to use these gears mostly for vlogging, instead of getting the latest Canon G7 X Mark III (that's also really nice if you're a newbie vlogger and prefers a small and compact camera) we opted for another model of Canon camera that's selling like hotcakes since it was launched last February this year- Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera. Get to know more about Canon EOS M50 Mark II and my other baby Canon Inspic S (that I'll also be using to shoot random photos but in a more fun way) after the jump!

NEED: Canon Inspic S and Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera

L: Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera Body with 15-45mm IS STM Lens Kit

R: Canon iNSPiC [S] ZV-123A in Pearl White

Herbalife Nutrition Vitamin Mask

     Premier global nutrition company, Herbalife Nutrition, unveiled its new Vitamin Mask series in the Philippines last February 09, 2021, through the first-ever Herbalife Nutrition Virtual Spa Experience with Laura Garbato, Director of Worldwide Education and Training and Chairwoman of the Outer Nutrition Advisory Board. She shared her dermatological expertise with us via a discussion on Herbalife Nutrition Skin Care Fundamentals. 

      As a member of Herbalife Philippines for over a year now, I was delighted to know that our company is also on a mission on making the largest part of our body- the skin, healthy and beautiful.  As a new addition to the Company’s outer nutrition range of products, the Herbalife Nutrition Vitamin Mask series was also introduced to us. Sharing more information about these vitamin masks after the jump!

Herbalife Nutrition Vitamin Mask

Essential Embrocation and Liniment Oil Brands in the Philippines

     I'm not sure when was the exact day that I heard the words Tito and Tita essentials but when these became word of the mouth a couple of years ago, there are a few things that we associate with them. One of the most popular essentials that have been linked to a Tito and a Tita is embrocation or liniment oil, yes?! These essentials are a must-have in every Tito's bag or Tita's purse and prolly you will agree that we (yes, I'm a certified Tita) can never have too many embrocation and essential oils at home. 

     If my memory serves me right, I've been using embrocation and liniment oils since I was in high school because of vascular headaches and migraine attacks. I'm not new to these essentials and I have tried many brands in the past already. I have a love-hate relationship with some brands because of minor side effects like an intolerable burning sensation when applied to the temples of my head or skin irritation. Other than that, I love the cooling, relaxing, and comforting feeling whenever I use or apply them for aches and pains. Sharing a short feature of the brands that became a mainstay in my Tita essentials stash below.

Essential Embrocation and Liniment Oil Brands in the Philippines

Virginia Festive Hams #TuloyPaRinAngPasko

     2020 is not yet cancelledt as what many of us would call or describe a year that has a series of unfortunate events. We experienced fear, anxiety, pain, heartbreaks, or loss but there are so many things to be thankful for. I will never forget this year because so many things happened in the past twelve months in our family and in our country as well.

     This may not be the best year for all of us but one thing is for sure- we are thankful. We are thankful that we are healthy, we are grateful that we still have jobs, and we are lucky because our family is complete. Days from now, we are going to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, and there's a reason to celebrate despite these trying times- to give joy, love, and hope to others. We may not celebrate it the way it used to be but with Virginia Festive Hams and Virginia Noche Buena Treats, the celebration still continues. This year, let's be reminded that "Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko, kasama si Virginia." Sharing simple tips on how to celebrate the holiday season with Virginia Festive Hams and Noche Buena Treats after the jump!

Virginia Festive Hams #TuloyPaRinAngPasko

The All-New Love Beauty and Planet Liquid Handwash Line

     I've been working from home since time immemorial. Being a content creator and a hands-on mom is no joke because my hands are busy from sun up to sundown. Staying productive all day while keeping our hands as clean and sanitized as possible has taken a toll on them. 

     As I alternate between the keyboard, phone, and the sink, I cannot deny the fact that my hands look tired and dry. I think it's time to give them a break and give the much-needed care they deserve with the new Love Beauty and Planet Liquid Handwashes. Sharing more information about the all-new handwash line below.

The All-New Love Beauty and Planet Liquid Handwash Line

L-R: Murumuru Butter and Belgian Rose Majestic Moisture Handwash, Coconut Water and Mimosa Flower Petal Soft Handwash, Coconut Oil and Ylang Ylang Tropical Fresh Handwash, Tea Tree Oil and Vetiver Pure and Positive Handwash

Feature: Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light

     It's a no brainer that when someone asks about an effective kojic soap brand here in the county, the automatic answer is Kojiesan. Kojiesan may be the country’s number one kojic acid soap, but that doesn’t mean that it’s done changing the beauty landscape. The brand is always evolving and seeking for ways to help women Command Beauty by offering high-quality products that give you the power to decide how you want to look. 

     Heads up, skincare junkies! Kojiesan recently launched their kojic acid innovation called Zero Pigment Light that lets you go “all the way light” and achieve an even complexion. This new skin lightening innovation is a powerful mode of action that takes the amazing lightening benefits of kojic acid up a notch by zeroing in on your dark spots, age spots, scars, melasma, and hyperpigmentation for a lighter even skin tone. I made a review of their first product line here: Kojiesan Lightening Range and surprised to see that it's already nearing 100,000 views. This only means that Filipinas are still considering the brand in the whitening department. So without further ado, get to know more and experience this new and improved kojic acid with Kojiesan’s dermatologically tested and paraben-free line of soaps Kojiesan Skin Lightening Classic Soap and Kojiesan Skin Lightening HydroMoist Soap, and new body wash variant Kojiesan Skin Lightening Body Wash with HydroMoist. 

Feature: Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light R

Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light Skin Lightening Classic Soap, Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light Skin Lightening HydroMoist Soap, Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light Skin Lightening Body Wash with Hydromoist, Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light Skin Lightening Body Lotion with Hydromoist, Kojiesan Zero Pigment Light Skin Lightening Beauty Wipes

How to Get Rid of Pimples while Boosting Immune System

     Let's admit that in almost 7 months of quarantine, our lifestyle has changed dramatically. We are all stressed and we cannot deny the fact that it affected us in so many ways. One aspect of our lives that we have given utmost importance is health. We all suddenly became health buffs and fitness enthusiasts because having a strong immune system these days is non-negotiable. But we must also give importance to another aspect that's affecting us mentally- stress! 

     The pandemic has instilled fear among us and whether we like it or not, we are always overthinking. This habit has contributed to our sleepless nights and hormonal imbalance that's why some of us are experiencing breakouts here and there. Another cause of nasty zits popping in our cheeks and jaw area is the use of a face mask. We are obliged to wear a face mask in public and the material or cloth used in face masks irritates our skin. Fret not because there are effective pimple treatments in the market today and I'm excited to present the first over-the-counter drug that is a clinically-tested and FDA-approved anti-acne and pimple treatment solution in the Philippines- Lactezin. Know more about this after the jump! 

How to Get Rid of Pimples while Boosting Immune System

Hair Color Transformation Balayage Ombre Ash Blonde

     Hello dearies! Sharing a short hair color transformation blog and vlog from last year's visit to one of David's Salon branches- David's for Rever at SM Novaliches. I've been coloring my hair for more than 10 years now and the shades I always choose falls on brown, blonde, and gray color charts.

     I've also tried different hair color techniques in the past like highlights, balayage, and ombre with minimal bleaching. I have a thin, limp, and long chemically abused hair that's why whenever I change my hair color, I achieve the shade or the closest shade easily. This brassy to classy hair color was achieved through Affinage 9.1 Very Light Ash Blonde but prior to using this brand, I've bleached half part of my hair months ago thus getting a real ash ombre. Sharing photos and the link to my vlog after the jump :)

Hair Color Transformation Balayage Ombre Ash Blonde

Feature: NIKS SKIN

     “Cultivate an optimistic mind, use your imagination, always consider alternatives, and dare to believe that you can make possible what others think is impossible.”- Rodolfo Costa. In this difficult time, we need to stay strong and positive. We are all affected by the pandemic but it doesn’t mean that we're so done with 2020. Instead of feeling down and depressed with all the happenings here and there, let’s make the situation as an opportunity of enrichment: focus more on self-care (pampering) and make that plan b (new channels of income) happen!

⁣

     I have good news for all of you! You can now improve your skin and improve your life through business opportunities with NIKS SKIN! If you are familiar with rejuvenating sets that became one of the famous trends in the skincare department last year,  NIKS SKIN is the newest brand that offers that kind of product. More about NIKS SKIN and how to start your own NIKS SKIN business after the jump.

Feature: NIKS SKIN

Feature: Love Beauty and Planet Clean Oceans Range

     We all need some vitamin sea but because of the pandemic, the "take me back to the beach" trip will be put on hold. Summer was canceled for most of us because it's better to stay at home and better be safe than sorry. If you miss the ocean, the beach, and the sea, there's a new collection that will take us back to our DNA- Love Beauty and Planet Clean Oceans Range.

     As residents of a tropical country, loving the beach and the ocean is part of our DNA. Being surrounded by the fresh air and smell of sea salt gives us a much-needed refreshed feeling, deepening our love for the water. As the beaches are not only our safe havens, but also an important natural resource and source of national pride, it’s important to show the same love and care for them as they have given us. This July, the brand that believes in showing small acts of love for the planet and for yourself, introduces the Clean Oceans Range, a limited edition set of personal care products, in bottles made with 100% ocean-bound plastic. Scroll down to know more about the collection and why you should try it now :)

Love Beauty and Planet Clean Oceans Range

Feature: Mentholatum Lip Pure

     A mask is a must in the new normal so do you still wear lipstick when going out these days? I’m sure your answer is no because it will only fade under a face mask. ⁣In the meantime, I’m ditching some of my lippies because I prefer applying lip balm for a soft and natural look plus it protects my lips from drying especially with a mask on. ⁣

     I've tried different lip balms in the past and only a handful delivers. Some lip balms are either too waxy or greasy and can be troublesome to wear if you have sensitive lips. Just recently, Mentholatum- the global company for non-prescription health care products and maker of my favorite eye drops launched two variants of their lip balms. Introducing the newest and affordable lip balms in town that will give your lips the TLC it needs- Lip Pure!

Feature: Mentholatum Lip Pure

4 Cheap Keratin Conditioners in the Philippines

     Move over, hair conditioner because these babies are making a scene in the hair care department. Half of my life I've been using different brands of conditioner to make my hair shiny, manageable, and frizz-free. I was born with straight but thin and limp hair that's prone to breakage and hair fall. When I started using different hair dyes to sport the shades that I like every three months, my hair started to feel rough and dry. Chemicals in the dye that I've used in the past are already taking its toll on my hair that's why I need an intensive hair treatment every now and then.

     Salon hair treatments are expensive and should be done twice or once a month. The price also depends on the type of treatment and hair length. Speaking of which, Keratin Treatments are the talk of the town when it comes to resurrecting health and shine in a super dry and damaged hair.  Since hair salons will not be opening soon because of the pandemic, a DIY or at-home hair care product is a must. In a random grocery shopping during the enhanced community quarantine period, I discovered hidden gems that function like salon keratin treatment- 1-minute Keratin Conditioners that can be used daily at the comfort of your home. Sharing a short feature of the 4 Cheap Keratin Conditioners I'm using alternately every day.

4 Cheap Keratin Conditioner in the Philippines 

4 Ways to Get Glowing Skin in Summer

     Summer is here! It's one of the well-loved seasons because of sea, sand, and sun but not all love this hot humid weather because their skin tends to act up. We have different skin types and whether you like it or not, some of the skincare products that we use lose their effectiveness hence a change in your regimen is a must.

  

     Time to take your skincare game to the next level this summer. If you have dull and dry skin, chances are you need to hydrate your skin inside and out. Feeling rough somewhere in your elbows? Then you need to start the gentle scrubbing at the comfort of your home. There are many ways on how to give your skin some TLC this season and to start the long list, let me share 4 ways to get glowing skin in summer after the jump. 

4 Ways to Get Glowing Skin in Summer
image from pexels.com

Feature: Promil Four 3D Pop-Up Theater

     Hello mommies! Have you tried the Promil Four Spot the Gift App already? If not, try it now because Promil is giving an interesting freebie when you buy the Promil Four 1.8kg in select stores nationwide. It's something that will help you nurture the gift further.

     Presenting Promil Four 3D Pop-Up Theater- a super fun 3D book that encourages your kid to customized their play in order to enhance their gifts based on the results of the Spot the Gift app. It's something that will also help moms in nurturing the gift/s of their children. Sharing how we to play the pop-up theater and how to relate this in my son's Spot the Gift results below.

Feature: Promil Four 3D Pop-Up Theater
3D Pop-Up Theater Book, magnifying and 3d glasses

Legoland Hotel Malaysia Adventure Themed Room- Rates, Photos, Review

     Have you read my Legoland Malaysia Water Park post? If not, click here what happened on our day 1 in Legoland Malaysia :) To those who are planning to visit Legoland, complete your experience by booking an overnight stay at the Legoland Hotel. Yes, a trip to Legoland will not be complete without this experience that's why I decided to give it a go instead of booking a hotel near the area.

     Our main itinerary last June 11-14 was to celebrate my son's 10th birthday at Legoland Malaysia. We arrived at Singapore on June 11 and stayed one night there before going to Malaysia the next day, June 12. I booked our Legoland Hotel room online and chose the cheapest rate (it's one week to go before the chosen date that's why most of the rooms were higher than usual). Room rate a week before our arrival is around P15,000/night and only a few themed rooms left. I asked my son which themed room where he likes to stay and he chose the Adventure Themed Room over the Pirate one.

Legoland Hotel Malaysia Adventure Themed Room- Rates, Photos, Review