Last night, I experienced something for the first time in years. I had this feeling of deja vu, followed by nausea and confusion and something wrong with my right hand. I had a seizure.

I had epilepsy when I was a child. Well, actually I still do. There is no cure for epilepsy. Medication only controls the seizures. I suffered a grand mal seizure ones, and regularly had a series of absence seizures. After taking medication for two years or so, I was cleared and my neurologist said I don’t have to take meds anymore if I don’t get any symptoms in a year. So I went on and had a normal teenage life.

2006, I had this strange deja vus followed by nausea and confusion. I remember it happening during a humanities 1 class (I was looking at the clock and I thought “this happened before”. Well of course. The clock strikes 1 twice a day) I suddenly felt like I was gonna get sick so I headed for the bathroom. Nothing came up. Another time it happened during org recruitment reporting. I don’t remember any trigger, but it just happened and I felt like throwing up but it subsided and while I knew where I was, I didn’t seem to want to believe myself.

I went back to my neurologist for the first time in 7 years. I had an EEG test again and yep, I still have epilepsy. I was prescribed medication again, but I told my parents I didn’t want to take it. I’m so done with that. Since no seizures of the sort followed, I went on to have a normal young adult life.

Until yesterday. I was on my way to Makati from eLBi for a watecolor crafternoon (I’ll blog about this separately ^_^ ). On the bus, I got that deja vu feeling. I shrugged it off. Doesn’t everyone get deja vus? On the bus ride back, I felt the same thing. It was as though the exact same V6 song has played in that exact same part of SLEX before. I had this deja vu feeling which I chalked up to the nostalgia-themed V6 song I was listening to. I felt a bit dizzy afterwards but it was a cramped bus and I was riding on the second to the last row. It’s always a bumpy ride over the wheel.

That night, I was ready to go to bed. I was just staring at the ceiling like usual and then got a sense of deja vu. Well I stare at the ceiling all the time. Of course it has happened before. And then my vision started spinning and I felt like vomiting. The type where you can’t even stagger to the rest room. I shoved my mess to the side, making room beside my bed on the floor for me to throw up. I didn’t.

Afterwards, there was this feeling of confusion. I knew where I was and what time and date it was, but somehow I wasn’t so sure. Like I won’t believe myself. Or like I’m slowly forgetting. I can’t quite explain it, it’s like you know something for certain and there is logic to it but somehow it doesn’t make any sense. There was also this part where I felt that feeling you get when you know the answer.

The part that makes sense, does not make sense. And the part the shouldn’t make sense, makes sense. It was a very confusing experience.

Worse of all, and this is something I haven’t experienced before, was the strange feeling in my right hand. I feel it until now, although mildly. I know my hand is there. I have control of it. But I don’t feel it properly, like the way I usually do. I grabbed a notebook and pen to scribble the date. I was able to do it easily, but my hand didn’t feel the way it should when I write something down. It was as if my body has less awareness of my hand.

That was scary because I haven’t experienced something like that before. It’s better now, but it still doesn’t feel quite the same yet.

I don’t want this kind of hassle again. Medication is pretty expensive. I’ll try to get a checkup as soon as I can, although it’ll probably involve the same things all over again (EEG definitely, maybe CT Scan if they’re annoying, and probably the same meds but in higher dosage). I really don’t need this right now.

I should probably cut down on substances that affect the brain. I don’t mean illegal drugs but even caffeine, alcohol and nicotine have certain stimulant and/or sedative effects. I’ve been drinking too much coffee/tea lately. I’ll cut back and hopefully I don’t get anymore of these strange things.

I’m in the academe now and I can’t afford to lose any more brain cells. And I can’t afford to have my already terrible motor skills to get worse dammit! I want to watercolor! Scumbag Brain, please behave.

PS. I don’t mean to scare you, but just because you’re having deja vus too doesn’t mean you’re also having seizures. How often does it happen? Does it have a physical effect afterwards, such as nausea or tingling hands/fingers like mine? I think everyone gets deja vus but your deja vu is probably different from mine.  If you think it’s bad, see a neurologist.

According to google, these deja vus are actually auras, like the ones people get prior to a migraine, except people with epilepsy sometimes get them prior to a seizure. Google “psychic simple partial seizure” if you think this is happening to you as well.

PS. There are different types of epileptic seizures, and I think I’m fortunate to have only gotten a tonic-clonic grand mal seizure (the jerky type) just once compared to people who have it everyday. Still, don’t judge. I know there’s an unfair negative stereotype against people with epilepsy, which is why I usually don’t tell people about this. So readers, please still love me after this.

Sadly, most laptop backpacks are either

1. Too masculine
2. Too bulky
3. Too casual-looking, like a highschooler’s daypack.

Of course, being the vain person that I am, I want a really stylish one. Imagine wearing a nice blouse and trousers and then carrying a super casual backpack (had to link, can’t help it. They have the pushiest, most annoying sales attendants. I’ll say “Thanks, but I want something more classic and feminine-looking” , “Ma’am we have it in red, pang babae… classic po yan pwedeng pang opisina”… STFU PLZ!)

Anyway, I’m obviously looking for a certain look. I scoured the internet and below are my choices.

1. Hasso Bags

Hasso Vega

Hasso Casas

So I found out about this Columbian brand Hasso and all it’s awesomeness. It’s EXACTLY what I want. My boyfriend is biased towards the Vega (because it’s green and shares his last name), but I think the Casas might suit my needs more. Sadly, they don’t seem to have any stockist here in the Philippines.  Also, they’re both over $100, which is too much to spend on a backpack, imo. Although I’ve read good reviews for this and apparently these bags are of superior quality.

2. Herschel

Herschel Little America

Even though this back is kinda big, I really like the vintage hiking bag look of Herschel’s Little America. We actually have Herschel here in the Philippines, but they only have limited colors. But then again, I guess that’s a good thing since I can’t choose the color I want myself. I narrowed it down to these three: drab green, denim, striped.

Again, these bags are super expensive, and I think the quality isn’t as good as the Hasso (based on reviews). Still, availability is a plus.

3. Eastpak

Eastpak Klosser Cottown in Beige

Now this bag, I’m sure is available here. I actually spotted it in Bratpack last time I checked. It’s also expensive (Php4,999), and somehow does not seem very sturdy. I like the size and the style, although the beige seems much lighter IRL and I’m afraid it’ll get dirty easily.

If all else fails, I’ll probably cop this one.

Why are laptop backpacks so expensive? I’m a bit hesitant to shell out this much on a bag. But then again, many other women buy LVs and Pradas and other designer bags. Name aside, if we’re paying for quality, then I guess that price is reasonable. I just have too much vanity in me to give in to my inner scrooge and buy that Hawk one. I don’t want bags like that huhuhu.

Do you know of any cute laptop backpacks? How much are you wiling to spend on a backpack? Post your comments.

Clozette.co Home Page

What’s great about it is that you can get your internet fashion fix all through this site. It’s like many different fashion sites (lookbook, chictopia, poupee, polyvore + shopping sites) in one!

Tried out the look posting function.

You can organize your closet by uploading photos of your clothes and accessories, as well as looks. Although I’m still getting the hang of it. It’s kind of confusing to navigate the site. It took a while for me to figure out the difference between categories and collections. I’m also not used to typing out descriptions for every item, since I think a picture says a thousand words already. I think they can stand to streamline the upload process a bit more.

You can post looks and like/comment on Looks by other members. You can even create Styles using uploads by other people.

Bazaar. You can create your own store and sell your wares.

You can also shop their wide collection of items. This is actually my favorite feature since I’m kinda anti-social to hang out in social sites. They have a business account for those who are interested in putting up a Clozette acount for their brand. Members can also Create Store for FREE and sell items in their closet.

Wishlist. I can get addicted to this.

Right now, here are the things on my Clozette Desires wish list.  Aside from basically adding everything from Madewell, I also have a couple of cute trouser, flat shoes/loafers/brogues/boot, and some 60s-style dresses. Ahhh I’m loving this! I wonder why you can’t add Bazaar items to “Desires” collection though.

Cute Japanese Site

The Japanese version of the site is also cool. I think that usability-wise, the homepage is actually easier to navigate (despite being in Japanese)

I think that Clozette can be a fun social network for fashion bloggers and people who like dressing up, simply because it has everything in one. The downside is that because of that same reason, it’s kind of difficult to navigate. But once you get the hang of it, I think it’s going to be a really convenient fashion one-stop site.

PS. There’s a Clozette Fashion Finds app for iOS devices as well. I wish they would roll out one for android soon!

2011, as I’ve mentioned in that year’s recap, was a year of trying. *cue 4 non blondes Oh my god did I try here* and afterwards told myself that for 2012 I would expect less and do more. Come midyear, I have shifted my goals towards being more understanding, patient, and authentic.

I did get my Masters degree, but a big chunk of the year was filled with trying out things and chasing different things. That might sound like exploration but it’s actually just going on starts and fits of inspiration, hoping to find myself and what I truly want. Being true to myself and holding out for what I want may have been difficult, but I guess I have been lucky because even though many times I was on the verge of being spent (financially and emotionally) I always managed to pull through. There were ALWAYS ways I am provided for, opportunities for me coming out of nowhere. And for those things, I’m grateful.

Things finally came together at the very end of the year for me, both with my relationships and career. Which is why now, more than ever, I am determined to make something out of the new year. If last year I didn’t have ambitions and actual goals, I no longer have that luxury now. Because now, I have something to lose. I have a future that I desperately want to protect. 

I cut the rest of the draft off. Suffice to say, it’s time to grow up yet again.

Clockwise from top-left: Mods Coat/Parka, Watercolors, Chabudai, Vitamin C serum, wireless headphones.

First off, forgive me for neglecting this blog. Wouldn’t you know it, I’ve actually been busy. I was supposed to revamp the blog theme (was planning to go responsive) for November but other tasks were a priority. Nobody reads this anyway.

I had just finished a project and scored myself some free time. I first thought of playing DotA 2 but I realized it’s pretty late and I didn’t want to wait too long for a match (why is DotA2 matchmaking sooo slowwwww). I decided to spend three pomodoros writing this post instead.

I’m pretty content with my life right now, I’m really thankful how things turned out this year. I don’t really wis h for much, but there’s always that deep bucket wishlist of things I don’t really need but would like to play with from time to time. That’s what this wishlist consists of. So if you’re interested in getting me something for Christmas *coughcough* I have compiled a list for you.

1. Mod’s Coat/Parka – I don’t really need this in my life, but I must say I get this twinge of irrational envy whenever I see models in Jfashion mags wearing something similar. The one in the photo is by Aya Noguchi (of Balcony and Bed) for Uniqlo Designer’s Invitation Project. It’s bloody expensive though, and I don’t need that exact mods coat. Ukay is fine too.

2. Watercolor – I hate drawing but I love coloring. It’s therapeutic seeing colors blend together. I like Prang watercolors (available at NBS, although the 16-pcs set is out of stock at the SM Calamba branch huhu) because the pigments are really strong and it’s slightly moist already. I’ve been using this since I was 9 years old, sadly my old set developed molds.  I prefer cake colors over tube ones (for tubes I use Sakura). I’ll go all out with the wishing and throw some brushes in – namely a zero brush, a round brush, a flat wash brush and a chinese paintbrush. Those are the ones I use.

3. Foldable Chabudai – I work a home, usually in bed with my laptop on my actual lap. And my room (which I share with my sister) is a mess. I don’t really use a desk, the one we have is being used as a dump  storage. But sometimes I would like a wider area to work on. Especially now that I’m considering watercolors again, I would need the space. We used to have an amazing foldable chabudai when we lived in Japan but sadly we didn’t bring it to the Philippines. This one from Muji looks cool, but perhaps I would want it a bit lower and wider.

4. Vitamin C Serum – I believe this is the one thing missing from my skincare regimen. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is known to reverse skin aging/photodamage and promote collaged production/skin building. Apparently it also whitens since kpop idols use vitamin C iontophoresis to get milky white complexion. I found what seems to be a good formula from Ciracle Philippines.

5. Wireless Headphones - As I have mentioned, I work while lying down in bed. This poses a problem for when I want to use headphones – the cord always get tangled, pulled and eventually gets ruined.  It’s really inevitable when used lying down (at this point you’re probably questioning my habits. But I’m sorry, that’s the hikikomori way). The sound doesn’t have to be spectacular, just enough for me to enjoy my V6.  The one in the photo is a wireless gaming headset by Logitech, but I welcome alternatives.

Aaaand that’s it. These are the things I’d like to find under my tree this Christmas. Simple enough, as I didn’t include really ridiculous big ticket items like laser die-cutter, industrial juicer, induction stove and deep fryer. Of course, you can always go of the wish and surprise me. Now if only my boyfriend would post a wishlist so I’ll know what to get him without asking him hihihihi

]]> http://blog.joycemanalo.com/2012/my-christmas-wishlist-2012/feed/ 0 http://blog.joycemanalo.com/2012/multiply-the-origination-awards/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=multiply-the-origination-awards http://blog.joycemanalo.com/2012/multiply-the-origination-awards/#comments Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:36:55 +0000 Joyce http://blog.joycemanalo.com/?p=710

Once my favorite social networking site, Multiply is going through a major overhaul by getting rid of the social aspect and going 100% e-commerce. (Make sure you export your old content before the big switch!) Not only have they recognized the potential of their system as a platform for buying and selling, but they are doing everything they can to adapt their site to the function their users desire it to be.

To celebrate and promote the platform and to  recognize the ingenuity of the people who organically saw the e-commerce potential of their site, Multiply is once again challenging its user with the Origination Awards! The Origination Awards is the search for the most original product from any Multiply Trusted Store (the ones with a ‘T’ beside their display picture).

The contest has three categories:

1. Most Original Fashion-Forward Idea -  for items that can be worn or used on the body, basically for everything vanity/kakikayan. This is probably the category under which my readers are most likely to nominate a product.
2. Most Original Gourmand Idea –   for food and drinks. If you buy from multiply home bakers and cooks, this is the time to let them shine.
3. Most Original Mommy Management Idea - for anything “mom”, from taking care of the baby to tools for the kitchen and prettifying the home. IMO this is a pretty broad category.

Nominate your favorite product now! Deadline is on November 18, 2012.

Despite all the hours I waste window-shopping at Multiply, I can’t quite think of a product to nominate on the top of my mind. I regularly search for products which may fall under Most Original Fashion Forward category, however most of the products I encounter are pre-order products made in Bangkok, China or Korea. I don’t buy food on Multiply since there are a lot of amazing food establishments and shops in my area. I’m not a mom so I don’t search for mommy-related items. And even if I find something I could possibly nominate, the seller unfortunately don’t have the Trusted badge.

Therefore I decided to post this, just in case my readers have an idea as to what to nominate. Perhaps I’m looking in all the wrong places. EDIT: Helga posted some suggestions on her blog!

Watch out for the announcement of finalists on December 1, 2012 and vote for your favorites! I’m curious to see all the original products netizens manage to discover. Winners will take home a business package worth Php200,000

A couple of weeks ago, I went to my favorite brow stylist (Choco of Metrohair here in LB. I only go to Metrohair for brows) for my maintenance. For some reason, perhaps because I was moody that day I felt that they were asymmetrical. I pointed it out to her and she did some measurements. It was just right. But I felt weird. I wanted them perfectly symmetrical, which I realized was impossible because the human body itself is slightly asymmetrical. Boobs are asymmetrical too. Like Michelle Phan said, eyebrows are sisters not twins. BUTTT I WAS MOODY so I took a blade to my own brows and le gasp…

Photo taken immediately after the accident, on the verge of crying.

Well, lesson learned I suppose. Since eyebrows take a long time to grow, I’ll have to live with this for a few weeks/months. Times like these I’m glad I’m a hikikomori.

Few weeks later, the shaved part is still obvious. But I’m smiling now because I figured out ways to live with it hehehe. Since I eventually have to leave the house, I use makeup (duh) to fix my brows.

It’s annoying how people would go “just draw on it” or “just pencil it in”. Well, duh. It’s ever that easy. Of course it needs to look natural and it needs to match the other brow. It’s not that hard but it isn’t that simple either.

ELF Studio Eyebrow Kit (PHP250) and ELF Wet Gloss Lash and Brow Clear Mascara (PHP 130).

I was in a pretty tight situation. I had PHP500 to buy myself eyebrow makeup and new grip for my badminton racquet, therefore expensive stuff was out of the question. I wanted to get In2it’s brow powder trio but it was out of stock and the SA was trying to sell me some eyebrow pen that didn’t have a tester WTF. I need a tester how the eff will I know if it will fix my brow?

ELF had testers, and I managed to make it work so I went with ELF instead. Everything else was pretty much out of my budget.

 Eyebrow wax to draw the missing hairs

Using the slanted brush, lightly dab on the wax. Make sure you don’t pick up too much product. Lightly draw lines on the shaved part in the direction of the hair growth. This will fill in the missing hairs. It looks more natural compared to pencil because it’s brown and the lines created by the brush is really light and thin.

Eyebrow powder to set

Then use the fluffy side of the brush (so glad this kit comes with a brush you can actually use! most brushes included nowadays are rubbish!) pick up some of the brow powder and then swipe in over your entire brow. This will set the brow wax and make the entire brow look even.

Apply powder on eyebrow. Lookie, it’s starting to look normal already

 Like so. I like that the brow powder is a pretty flat shade of brown (no red or yellow undertones) that isn’t too dark. Dark powder might look a bit too aggressive and unnatural. You can also use the powder to define the shape of your arches (in my case, non-arch)

Apply brow powder on the other side

The brow powder will make your brow a bit darker and more defined, so make sure to also apply on the other side. Mismatched brows would be another problem otherwise.

Apply clear brow mascara to set.

I can’t vouch for the staying power of the brow kit since I haven’t really timed how long I’ve been wearing it. But to make it last longer, I apply brow gel/mascara over the whole thing. Make sure it isn’t too wet or else you’ll wipe off work you’ve already done. Just lightly brush in the direction of the hair growth.

Perhaps, when the hairs are a bit longer, I can do without the wax/powder and just use the mascara. Just fix the hairs to cover the spot and set. Similar to comb-overs you see on balding people.

The after photo. It’s like nothing happened hahaha!

Voila! My eyebrows are back! I can go out of the house again hehehe! I bring the brow kit with me in case I need to retouch but so far the makeup has stayed put. And I like that my brows actually look neater now that I use a bit of product on it.

Plan B: Wear bangs.

But if all else fails, like on days I’m too lazy (which is most of the time), I can always just cover the shaved brow with my bangs over that side hehehe. I was actually contemplating, for the first time in years, to grow them out but then this accident happened. Looks like I’ll be keeping this hairstyle for a while.

Other makeup I’m wearing

Face: FS Powder Foundie in Chino, Mineraux gold mineral powder as highlighter, Revlon Photoready concealer

Eyes: Majolica Majorca Lash Expander Frame Plus Mascara,  Nichido GNO pencil liner in pink diamond (for bottom lash line)

Lips: Skinfood Honey Glossy Rouge #605

Anyway, I’m coming out of hiding because my friend A, (whose blog you should totally follow btw) wants me to blog about all the gunk I use on my face. Yeah, I admit it’s quite a lot. Several times random people have complimented me on my skin (even though I’m not satisfied with it, personally) and always, they would ask me “Anong sabon mo?” (“What soap do you use”) or “anong nilalagay mo?”. Well, I would tell them. But I think it’s not just the soap or cream or whatever. It’s the whole routine that I religiously follow, as opposed to just one product.

Never mind the giant cookie. This is how my skin looks without makeup and photoshop. Looks clear but if you tilt your screen you would see some dark spots and blemishes.

Skin Type: Dry, dehydrated, not acne-prone.  

Skin Tone: Medium Tan with olive undertones.(In foundation talk that’s MAC NC37, FS in Chino, Revlon  Photoready in Medium Beige.) 

There is no guarantee that the products that work for me will also yield the same results on you, especially if we do not have the same skin properties. I cannot recommend my routine to people with oily, acne-prone skin. But even if your skin is dry like mine, please use caution when dealing with products especially those with actives.

My routine used to be simpler, but lately I decided to seriously take up skin lightening which involves several products. I know there’s a lot of criticism on that but it’s my skin, my life and ultimately my decision. I’ll save a lengthier rant about that for another post. For now, here are all the products I use on my face.

Makeup Remover/Cleansers

If I happened to be wearing makeup, I remove it first with Virgin Coconut Oil. Simply massage coconut oil onto your skin and then tissue off. I find that VCO is the only thing that can quickly remove even my waterproof Majolica Majorca mascara. 

Afterwards, I wash my face with Likas Papaya or any Kojic Soap. Right now I’m using Kojie-san because they’re on sale. Make sure to use warm water when using VCO to remove makeup. Rinse with cool water. Most of the time though, tap water is good enough.

I also use Cetaphil sometimes, for when my skin feels sensitive.

Astringent/Toners

The next step in my routine is toning. The purpose of toning is to remove residue left over from the cleanser and clear the pores of any dirt the cleanser might have missed. This step also preps the skin to receive the products you’ll be using.

For this step, I often use Eskinol Classic. A lot of people think that Eskinol is too harsh or drying, but I’ve been using this since I was 11 and honestly, that’s not the case with me. My skin is already dry to begin with, and it does not make it even drier. Although for days when I’m experiencing sensitivity and peeling I use my new discovery, Venus&Mars Happy Pores. It’s made of witch hazel and is alcohol-free. I like this because it does not sting at all, even on actual scratches. It’s a bit expensive though, and does not quite remove excess dirt as well as Eskinol.

Exfoliants

I started exfoliating my skin more often when I started skin lightening. But I have always considered exfoliation as an important step even before that. I used to exfoliate once a week using Garnier Lightening Peel-Off Mask. I find it to be a gentle exfoliant  although the lemon essence in it kinda stings a bit. The problem with this is that you’ll have to wait a long time before it dries, and it’s a bit expensive to use often.

I recently switched to Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Cream. I use this almost every night. The ingredients include a lot of active ingredients such as glycolic acid and niacinamide, along with ascorbic acid and salicylic acid in lower concentrations. Lot of potent ingredients, but the percentages aren’t so high so you can use this almost every night.

Above, I posted that I sometimes use Cetaphil and VMV instead of my usual products on days I’m peeling or feeling a bit of sensitivity. As soon as I feel my skin has been exfoliated enough, I stop using exfoliants and instead I baby my skin with gentle products. This is to avoid damaging the new skin. The new skin under the top layer that was just exfoliated is very sensitive, so it is best to use gentle products during this time in order to let my skin recover.  Do not over-exfoliate!

WARNING: Don’t use these two products (Garnier Mask and Maxi-peel cream) together. I once made the mistake of doing just that and I felt a lot of stinging on my face.

Niacinamide Creams

Niacinamide or Vitamin B3, is a proven skin lightening agent. It works by preventing melanosomes (which contain melanin) from attaching to keratinocytes found in the epidermis. (Please don’t kill me for not citing specific studies, it’s all on Google Scholar I just can’t be bothered to dig them up all over again).

I use Olay Natural White or SkinWhite Face Cream. Both lists niacinamide/Vitamin B3 as its active ingredient. Other brands also offer niacinamide creams but I’ve only actually seen results from these two. I use niacinamide creams during the daytime.

Arbutin Essence

Essences are actually just another type of formulation for the gunk you put on your skin LOL. Asian skincare has all sorts of formulas — serums, emulsions, lotions (which actually act like toners), etc. Basically just a formula, with differences in concentration, moisture, and how quickly it gets absorbed. Essences are concentrated formulas that are not as easily absorbed as serums, but are a bit more moisturizing. They come as is or through sheet masks.

I’m not really particular about the formula at this point. I’m more interested in the ingredient alpha-arbutin which is a skin lightening agent.  Arbutin is a derivative of Hydroquinone (controversial, more of this in a bit) which lightens the skin by inhibiting the formation of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin.

I found that the Pure Beauty Super Brightening Essence and Facial Mask contains arbutin, and I’ve actually seen some results from it. The mask is actually more concentrated than the essence, plus it contains a considerable amount for just one use. Sadly, I can’t find the Facial Mask at Watsons anymore. Even the Essence is getting hard to find. I’m afraid they might have stopped importing this Any suggestions for a concentrated whitening formula? If not arbutin, I’m interested in trying other agents, like Paper Mullberry extract.

Sunscreen

Since I’m exfoliating regularly and using a lot of actives, I exert a lot of effort to protect my skin from the sun. I do not use anything below SPF28 when heading out, although I use SPF15-20 when I’m just indoors. I use my BB Cream with SPF 28 on very cloudy days. For days when the sun is actually out, I use either Hawaiian Tropic Baby or Banana Boat Kids SPF 50. I figured that if it’s ok to use on a baby’s skin, it’s probably all right to use on adult facial skin. I haven’t had problems with these so far. I’m partial to the Banana Boat one though, since it does not contain Oxybenzone (said to cause free-radical damage).

The downside of using a lot of sunscreen is that it often creates a white cast in pictures. Personally, I’ve learned to just deal with the white cast. As long as there is no white skin residue IRL, it’s fine with me. If I know photos will be taken I either use lower SPF or just foundation.

Moisturizer/Skin Builder

Since my skin type is dry, this step is super important for me.  My usual night moisturizer is Pond’s Age Miracle Night Cream, which has skin building/cell regenerating components that help with anti-aging along with the moisture it provides. Skin building is just as important on exfoliating skin as it is on aging skin.

I sometimes also use soft-gel Vitamin E capsules mixed with a bit of VCO. Vitamin E is known for its nourishing effect on the skin, and VCO moisturizes and help clean the skin too!

A bit off-topic, but Virgin Coconut Oil is probably the closest thing I can get to a beauty elixir. I use it on my skin for cleansing, moisturizing since it has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. I also use it on my hair for the same reasons. Recently, I found out about the benefits of ingesting it orally and I’m seeing results from that too. Seriously, it works on almost anything. Definitely the best thing in my beauty arsenal.

AM and PM Routine

Ok, so that’s a LOT of products. Believe it or not, I’ve actually cut back on some products already! I now skip the eye cream/serum, massage mask  and nose pore strips. I found out I don’t need them as much ever since I started exfoliating and moisturizing more.

Korean skincare routines purportedly have upto 18 steps and it’s supposed to be the reason for their clear, white skin.  Personally, I don’t buy that. For one thing, I don’t think Korean skins are all that great to begin with (especially now that I know you can fake the “glow” using highlighters and dewy BB creams). Also, 18 products on your face is overkill. Your skin can only absorb so much. I might have listed 15+ products here, but I don’t slather them all at the same time. Here’s how my routine actually works.

AM Routine: Cleanser, Toner, Niacinamide Cream, Sunscreen. — I use the gentle versions for when my skin is peeling.

PM Routine: Cleanser, Toner, Exfoliant, Arbutin Essence, Moisturizer – I double cleans (VCO + Soap) when I’m wearing makeup, and I use the gentle versions and skip the exfoliant when my skin is peeling.

It’s actually just 4-6 products per application. Just enough to address all my skin concerns. I do this every day even when I’m feeling tired or lazy. I guess it’s pays to be mindful about these things because my skin is actually getting lighter and looking better as time passes by.

Another thing, if you notice, almost all of these products are drugstore-bought. Nothing high-end or expensive in my routine. Personally, I don’t feel the need to try any of those expensive skincare sets since I’ve found products that work for me for a fraction of the cost. The key is to know your skin, what it needs and what irritates it, study ingredients and proceed to choose products that might work for you.

Whew, that was really long. I hope you find this post interesting. Feel free to share your own routine, or if you have any questions regarding any of the products just drop them in the comments and I’ll try to answer. 

Chino pants from Lee. Bag from Sophie Martin. Oversized shirt from Grab-a-tee. Red loafers from Divisoria. 

Hype this Look on Lookbook.nu 

 I haven’t anything better to do at the moment, so I told myself I should blog more often. I want to post at least twice a week.  Well guess what, this week is almost over and I haven’t updated. Shame. But I can still make it up.

I’ve been thinking about all the things I want to do but haven’t been able to. It’s quite a list. I’d like to think that all this free time is a blessing, and that I should use it to chase my pipe dreams. I realize I probably won’t have this type of luxury again after this.

For now, I’m going to suspend all my fears and hesitations and just pursue everything I never got the chance to pursue. I have very little to lose right now.

And I just might find something in the process.

Enough babbling, let’s talk about my outfit. I used to be a skirt person, somehow pants and jeans never fit me properly. It’s only recently that I figured out my weird vertical proportions. I’m short-legged AND short-waisted. At first it doesn’t seem to make sense, until I realized it’s my rise (crotch-to-waist measurement) that’s long. Since then, I’ve come up with ways to cheat my figure. I actually wear pants more often now.

This is how I dress on a normal day. Super casual. I was actually having second thoughts of posting this on lookbook, as this isn’t exactly the type of look that gets hyped (unless you’re super thin and pretty then everything you post gets over 9000). But what the heck, I took pictures already, so might as well.

As a rule, it’s not recommended for short legged people to cuff their pants (and wear them with flats, to boot!). The visual effect cuts off the legs, making it look shorter than it really is. But the same reason of my legs being short is also why I need to cuff my pants — they end up too long for me. I cheat by cuffing it slimmer than the thigh to at least give an illusion of streamline-ness, and I wear a top that’s a bit loose and long enough to hide where the legs begin (waistband). But hiding the waistband completely makes my short-torso seem more awkward, so I half-tuck my shirt to reveal just enough waist.

Because dressing for your body type is serious business.

I also have to mention, those loafers from Divi are the best. Got them for super cheap (Like, Php250 I think) and I’m abusing the hell out of them. I think I’ve grown out of my heels phase, or maybe I just haven’t been back to Liliw yet.  But I wear flats more often now. I have another one similar to the one worn here, but a slightly different style, and in black.

Also, I still don’t wear accessories. Bag and belt, and I’m good to go. Maybe I’ll try wearing a hat or scarf some time.

No better than now too 
The negative slogan
Emergency 
Until the call gets cut
Just ready go 
It is now the age of fearlessness 

No way at this rate
As long as we have something important
We got lost
It’s like we’re gonna lose it
Just ready go
[YES] That’s why we need to act now

-V6, Will

Choosing your course and campus involves some serious decision-making and a bit of strategy. What you write in those forms can increase your chances of getting into UP. But more importantly, filling in the UPCAT form or any college application form requires you to make choices that can greatly affect your future. There’s a bit of pressure to do it right. Below are some tips I wish someone told me when I was  a high school senior.

1. Choose your course first, campus second.  In the long run, it’s your course, not the campus, that will play a part in your career and future. Make sure to choose the one you really like, regardless of what campus it’s offered in. Broad Comm in UP Diliman may seem more coveted and prestigious compared  to the one in UP Baguio, but in the long run it doesn’t really matter. Try applying for jobs abroad and they won’t even recognize the difference between campuses. It’s the course that matters.

2. Second choice campuses are important. When I was teaching review classes, I’ve heard a lot of students express distaste for campuses that are far from where they live, so much that they say they won’t even bother writing them down in their UPCAT forms. I have a couple of issues with that. First, there is more to UP than Diliman and Manila. Provincial campuses are still part of the UP system and they still provide quality education. Second, even though you think there’s no way your parents can afford to send you to UP Visayas in case you pass, it’s still easier to apply for change of campus if you’re already an UPCAT qualifier compared to if you’re a non-qualifier applying for waitlist.  And even if you do end up in Baguio or Los Baños or some campus you didn’t intend to attend, well at least that will  be an amazing experience.

3. Check out rankings when choosing campuses. Or even when choosing a university in general. Look at board exam results of the course of your choice, and find out which schools have the most number of passers. Also check out the topnotchers. This will help you determine which campus or school offer good degree programs in the respective fields. While passing and topping the board exam depends more on the student, it still helps to have a good background.

4. If you still don’t have a course in mind then you’re in quite a pinch, since the deadline for submission of forms is tomorrow (June 22). Don’t worry, I myself waited last minute before filling it up. I ended up with my first choice (BS Development Communication in UPLB) and I have no regrets. If you really can’t decide, think of your favorite subject in school. If you don’t have one, think of the subject you do best/get the highest grades in, and choose something related to that. This is because some degree programs place grade quotas on certain subjects. For example, most communication programs expect you to get higher scores in the Language and Reading part of the UPCAT. Engineering subjects look at your math scores. If you choose a subject you’re good at in high school, it’s likely you’ll do better in that part of the UPCAT and you’ll have a higher chance of getting in.

5. Don’t choose a course with the intention of shifting. I’ve heard a couple of parents tell their kids to take non-quota degree programs and programs with fewer students. They think that as long as they get into UP, they can later shift into the degree program they really want. Don’t do it! In order to shift to a different degree program, a student must have good grades. But the reality is, a lot of students don’t get grades good enough for shifting in their first year. It’s crazy how a large percentage of freshmen get a 5.0 on their first Math subject. Besides, it’s difficult to do well in a course you’re not very interested in, coupled with adjusting to college life and other freshman woes there is a high chance you won’t be able to shift. So my tip is choose the course you want from the start. If you don’t pass then perhaps it’s best to try a different campus or university.

So those are my tips. I know I ended up publishing this post a bit late, but I hope it helps. (Like I said, I filled in my form last-minute so I guess this post will come in just in time for someone.) Remember, deadline for submission of UPCAT Application is tomorrow June 22, 2012! Good luck and I hope you make the right decisions!

PS. It’s not recommended, but if you really need extra time you can submit your application late. However, you’ll have to pay an extra Php150 late submission fee.