I’ve hit an all time low :))
HAPPY APRIL FOOLS DAY, EVERYONE!
xx,
Issa P.
[VLOG] Full Face Make Up Using JUST Lipstick
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Category Archives: Beauty
5 Things You Should Know Before Getting Gel Polish ft. Nailaholics Nail Salon & Spa
Ever heard of the expression: we always want what’s bad for us? (or was it what we can’t have?) Well, this is sort like one of those occasions but with an upside. A pretty one, at that!
I’ve been getting gel polishes every so often for the past year. I do so with caution for reasons that will be explained in the points below. It’s honestly a love- hate relationship but during my recent trip to Nailaholics, Ayala Center Cebu, I simply could not resist. I settled for a gel polish in all its damaging glory but honestly, I don’t regret it.
If you’ve heard of gel polishes before, I’m sure you’ve heard of their long lasting powers which is this products claim to fame but before you go ahead running to your closest salon, here are a few things you should know about getting gel polish:
- Gel manicure can last up to 1- 3 weeks.
It’s longevity is really the main reason why I get them done in the first place. Regular manicures usually only last me up to 3 days because I’m always using my hands whether if it’s typing, washing dishes, fixing fabrics or what have you so I only really get them during special occasions like a photo shoot, wedding or a fancy event. Yes, you can still get your cuticles cleaned and the gel polish will stay on.
2. Gel Manicures are difficult to remove on your own (it is also not advised)
In Issa world, this only means that I have to pay someone to remove them for me which sometimes sounds ridiculous but it’s a small price to pay to make sure you don’t damage your nails too much, if you actually care about damaging them.
I have honestly never made it to the parlor to have them removed. Maybe it’s my impatience or maybe it’s my complete unwillingness to spend (I believe it’s the latter) but I have always picked at them to get them off. The reality is, I don’t care too much about damaged nails anyways because for one, they grow out. Another, do people get nail cancel? I must Google this. So irresponsible, I know.
3. Too much is bad for you.
My frequent picking, I believe, is forgivable considering I only get them very so often but generally, you’re not advised to get more than two gel manicures back-to-back. I’ve also read that the UV light which is used to dry the manicure can have long term effects if exposed to it too much but requesting for an LED light is a safer option.
Really, can someone please explain HOW damaged your nails can get? Don’t they just grow out? (ignorant me refusing to google and asking for a lecture. I’m gonna get it bad!)
4. Nail rehab is best post gel manicure removal.
Moisturizing and deep penetrating oils and balms are the best way to help your nails recuperate after a drying session of gel manicure. This post manicure procedure is best for repairing damaged and weak nails and it will also allow your nails to breathe. I would also suggest opting for a lighter manicure (meaning: not gel polish) right after having your gel polish removed.
5. I would still get one anyways.
I know the interwebs say that gel manicures are dangerous for you but if you read the fine print, it’s really only damaging if you do it too much. If you’re someone like me that doesn’t like chipped nails and doesn’t have the necessity of going to the parlor every week, I would totally do it. I’ve had my polish for almost a week already and even with all my cleaning and typing, my manicure is still in place which means I’m ready to shake hands with anyone I meet and I like it that way and maybe suffocating my nails for 3 weeks seems like a price I’m willing to pay (for me. You’re allowed to feel differently!).
There are definitely pros and cons to this nail technology but if you’re find out about it anywhere, I would rather you heard from me. Whatever decision you have, more importantly, it’s essential that you go to a facility that understands your needs, takes care of you and practices complete professionalism and sterility.
Nailaholics Nail Salon & Spa, located at the 3rd floor of Ayala Center Cebu and SM Seaside City, is a relaxing Hamptons inspired getaway in the city. Their top of the line services and friendly prices will have you extending your stay and relaxing the day away.
Check out their services offered and prices here.
For updates, follow them on Facebook and Instagram!
xx,
Issa P.
[VLOG] My Daily Make Up Routine + Feminine Eye Shadow Look
Hey everyone!
Been playing around with make up, videos, Sony Vegas & just everything that I can get my little eager hands on.
I’m quite proud of this video, quality wise, despite the fact that I got too lazy towards the end to make a decent voice over. But when it all comes down to it, I feel like it kind of worked! I mean, how else am I supposed to show you guys my polar opposites?
Anyways, today is the day we bury my grandpa and we pick up & install our new A.C. unit. I hope you all have a great weekend!
xx,
Issa P.
Honest Thoughts Before Getting A (Brazilian) Wax & Some Comforting Truths ft. Hey Sugar
There’s a certain sense of anxiety and liberation when it comes to getting waxed. I’ve been waxed “down there” before and let me tell you, every.single.time I go to a new place my mind goes to a million different places. So for this post, I’ve decided to write down a few honest thoughts I’ve had before getting a Brazilian wax and some truthful truths to make you feel better about it if you’ve been thinking about it but never had the guts to do it.
Thought # 1:
“What if I smell?”
Comforting fact:
Hey Sugar hands you wet wipes before the session even begins together with a paper pad that goes under you for hygienic purposes so you don’t have to worry about anything.
Thought # 2
“Do I have to do any pre- waxing activities to make it easier?”
Comforting fact:
Pain wise, probably not. If you can handle pain, you can but if you can’t then you’re just gonna have to be a trooper! But… I do prefer to trim just a little bit to make the process a little faster but don’t cut TOO short, you still want there to be enough space for the wax to hold on to.
Thought # 3
“Isn’t it weird to have another person in that… region?”
Comforting fact:
Waxing is a profession so basically, you’re not the ONLY person your therapist has waxed- it’s as normal to them as it is for an OB to see a baby coming out of a person so don’t stress about it too much. To ease the tension though, you can always come in the first time to get another service (check other services below) and see how you like your handler for your next private session.
Thought # 4
“I’m still towards the end of my (.). What if I drip?”
Comforting fact:
Well, you can’t go until after a week after your TOM anyways so go home, get some rest and come back when everything is clear.
Waxing of certain body parts is often times taboo in our rather conservative country but there shouldn’t be any shame in taking care of yourself so don’t be ashamed to bare it all.
If there’s one thing that money cannot buy, it’s service and Hey Sugar truly offered me one of the best pampering sessions by far with their super accommodating and well trained staff & clean facilities.
They are open at Ayala Center Cebu, SM Seaside & SM City Cebu.
For more details and promotions, follow them here!
Hey Sugar,
Issa P.
2017 FASHION TRENDS – Issaplease
Super excited to ring in the year 2017 mostly because the fashion & make up trends are so enticing, it’ll be hard to stay away!
Together with Angela Morales, we put together a quick vlog about the up and coming trends for the year to come.
Hope you enjoy it!
Also, please do take the time to like and subscribe to our respective channels. We’ve got a lot in store for next year and your love and support would mean soo much to us!
HAPPY NEW YEAR,
Issa P.
12 Things I’m Grateful For After 12 Years Of Blogging #ThankYou
Wow. I can’t believe that it’s been 12 wonderful, crazy, long years! I am literally in tears looking back at all the memories I’ve been able to share to the online world and where this thing has taken me.
I started out blogging when I was 14 years old and back then, I was just an angsty teenager bumming off free midnight dial up internet trying to figure out HTML codes and what marquee effect would go best with my awesome customized cursor. Now, I’m not only Issatalks but I’m also Issaplease which allows me to talk about other things I love which are fashion, food, travel, family- LIFE.
I am the most grateful and blessed person in the world right now to have the things and knowledge (or sometimes, the lack of) that I have right now and once again, for the 11th year, allow me to share bits and pieces of knowledge and aspirations for the year that is to come!
2017
1. Will you be looking for a new job?
In 2017, I can foresee myself taking on new responsibilities which could mean a job or which could mean something else… I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to jinx it but you’ll definitely know when it happens!
2. Will you be looking for a new relationship?
We already know what that’s like. Both of us, actually. So, no.
3. New house?
Yes! I moved places in 2016 and as much as I love my tiny room, it wouldn’t hurt to have a bigger space.
4. What will you do different in 17?
I’m definitely going to do a lot of new things in 2017 but I’m going to try and keep 2016’s mindset of never closing my doors and continually discovering & exploring new things.
5. New Years’ resolutions?
To work hard on my craft.
6. What will you not be doing in 2014?
Forgetting to count my sheep, being so indecisive and revolving my world so much around one single person.
7. Any trips planned?
China! (I honestly don’t know why I’m saying this with so much enthusiasm. lol)
8. Wedding plans?
:>
9. Major thing on your calendar?
Lots of vlogging and blogging projects, PAPA COMING HOME & other stuff
10. What can’t you wait for?
For my papa to come home!
11. What would you like to see happen differently?
Right now I just want the world to be a better place- less conflict, superficiality, entitlement, trash and traffic & more opportunities, creative outlets, respect and peace.
12. What about you will you be changing?
2016 was a rough journey which took a lot of self evaluation & reflection in order for me to find this peace which I feel like I now have towards 2017. There are so many things I wish I could have changed from the year that is about to pass but in reality, if I never experienced them, I never would have discovered this new person. So… I don’t really know what I’ll be changing in 2017. Maybe my hair color.
13. What happened in 2016 that you didn’t think would ever happen?
OH LORD, WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN?!?
14. Will you be nice to the people you care about?
Always. If not, even more.
15. Will you dress differently this year than you did in 2016?
Sure.
16. Will you start or quit smoking?
Quit. I feel like I say this every year but the end of this year has been great in this genre. So let’s keep doing it!
17. Will you better your relationship with your family?
Of course, always.
18. Will you do charity work?
If given the opportunity, yes.
19. Will you go to bars?
Never really liked going to bars so I’m going to keep staying away from them.
20. Will you be nice to people you don’t know?
I am ALWAYS nice to people I don’t know.
21. Do you expect 2017 to be a good year for you?
Yes because 2016 sucked the life out of me!
22. How much did you change from this time ‘til now?
A whole lot. I don’t even feel like I’m the same person sometimes! Well, not really. But I feel great about myself and I feel like I am so much stronger than I ever was so that’s a great way to feel and to start the new year.
23. Do you plan have on having a child?
We will just have to see. (woah!)
24. Will you still be friends with the same people you are friends with?
I have been blessed with more friends in this life that I could ever need and if God wants to bless me with even more, than by all means, why not?
25. Major lifestyle changes?
Most likely, yes. :>
26. Will you be moving?
Hopefully by the end of 2017 but we’ll have to see how things work out.
27. What will you make sure doesn’t happen in 2017?
No more break ups in 2017, please!!
28. What are your New Year’s Eve plans?
The usual dinner with family. Lots of love & cheer for this festive season ❤
29. Will you have someone to kiss at midnight?
No matter the circumstances, no matter how much 2016 tested us- I will be kissing the same person I have been kissing for 5 years. Gaaah!
30. One wish for 2017?
For it to be kind, fruitful, travel/ adventure/ family & love filled. Only good things for 2017 and for forever.
[2004-2005] [2006] [2007] [2009] [2010] [2011] [2012] [2013] [2014] [2015]
We all have something to be grateful for this year whether if it’s the opportunity to share your thoughts to the world, to be kind to one another, to be of service, to provide others with a wonderful experience or to even just be alive! This year, Air Asia shares with us a heartfelt reminder of the things we ought to be grateful for and their thank you’s for being able to provide us with a wonderful traveling experience through their world- class service of the world’s best low- cost airline.
I would also like to take this opportunity to share 12 things that I am more than thankful for from the year 2016…
- Being able to have a voice.
I am just one tiny person in this vast universe but through blogging and now, vlogging, I have the opportunity to share my thoughts; ideas & talents with the world. I never thought that my opinion or skills would be appreciated or yearned for but through your emails, comments, likes, shares & so much more, I feel like I am someone in this big bad world and that feels so great!
My favorites entries this year revolved around my personal struggles, realizations and experiences- things that I were scared to post online but surprisingly, the ones that garnered your love and appreciation. Here are a few:
- How I Got Over My Quarter Life Crisis
- Hotel Rooms & A Short Rant On Beauty
- Becoming Blue
- Getting Over My Slump
- An Open Letter To My 26 Year Old Self
- A Collection of Thoughts, Feelings and Explanations I Probably Don’t Owe Anyone But Myself
- An Open Letter To My College Self
2. The ultimate gift of family & friends.
I have been blessed with the gift of family & friends who have supported me all the way. Sure, I get teased a lot for being a “blogger” but they’re not just there for me when I need my photos or videos taken but most especially when it comes to being a shoulder I can cry on, designated drivers when I’m too drunk to function (yes, it’s happened!) and fulfilling my perpetual needs to discover the world.
I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for these people and I might not be able to name all of you but do know that you make my life so much better just because of your existence!
3. The Issatalks book.
Issatalks is and will always be my firstborn child. My blog is like a best friend, a sponge, an extension of who I am and sometimes, the Issa I wish I could show the world. This year Paolo gifted me with a hardbound copy of my blog entries from 2011- 2015 (but he promises to print the rest. hehe) as a way for me and us to remember our relationship when we lose our way. It’s been a rough (<- biggest understatement of the year!) for us but we’re stronger than ever and this book is more than just a reminder, it’s a dream come true. I can’t wait for the rest of the entries to be printed for my future library! ❤
4. New experiences.
2016 was a year of self realization, actualization and just finding out who I wanted to be and figuring out how to become that person. Along with this mantra, came a lot of wonderful experiences whether through travel, the people I surrounded myself with and just the things I did.
I moved back to the city, I joined more events, put myself out there some more and ventured into a new creative outlet- YOUTUBE.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JKVGWySPgM
5. Being under CPA MCN Adober’s Studio.
Gosh, it feels awesome to say it- I’m a Kapamilya! It’s been sort of a slow year for me in terms of vlogging as I’m still really trying to figure out what kind of content I want on my channel but given the circumstances, I am still blessed beyond comprehension as my craft and potential has been recognized by a network that breeds talent- ABS CBN. How many people get to say their under ABS CBN? A lot. lol. But still, I’m one of them!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ureuSwPAjOY
6. Finding a support system in this industry.
A lot of you must think that being in the blogging/ vlogging industry is so “ma-showbiz” but it’s actually not the case. Sure, we have our moments, like every other group does but for the most part, we’re all just a bunch of normal, semi-crazy, insanely passionate people who share the same dreams and goals and try to help each other out!
I’ve found my rightful place in this world with my Cebu Fashion Bloggers and Adober’s Studio family. I’m at peace, I’m at home and gosh, I couldn’t ask for another support system like them!
7. Being able to work with different brands.
Gosh, I worked with so many brands and establishments this year sometimes I have trouble keeping up! It’s been such a hectic year and thinking about it now, I don’t even understand how I had the time to sulk and have moments of sadness. -.- I was given so many opportunities this year and I am grateful for each and everyone of them. I might not be able to name all of my favorites, but here’s to trying!
ZEE Lifestyle (for the Zee Lifestyle Directory) 2nd year in a row. Thank you always, Patty & Shari! Thank you for always remembering me!
Island Souvenirs (Thank you for giving me my first legit ad campaign and for my first runway show!)
Emporium. BTW, Congratulations on your 2nd and 3rd branch!
Gibbs’ Hot Wings. Coy, you always take such good care of me. I am forever grateful for you!
Paula Jiron of Pixie Dust for giving me the opportunity to work with G- Shock & Shockwear
ZEROTHREETWO. Mad love to the most down to earth people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting!
Pow Bao. If you haven’t tried their bao’s yet… why are you still here? Nah, jk! They’re now open at Ayala Center Cebu- drop by!
Bad Boys Wingz. I can love two wings places, right? Gino, Andrew & David- thank you always for the extra love. BEST BURGER IN CEBU, FOR SURE!
Sugbo Mercado. Thank you guys for always keeping me full! Also, they now have 3 branches: IT Park, Ayala Business Park & SRP. Go. NOW!
Laundry Clothing. Still my favorite bikini til this day. I can’t wait for summer 2017!
Huawei. Again, I’m sorry for losing my P9. It was the best 2 weeks of my life!
Sunnies Specs. Thanks for giving me better vision in 2016! I now have 2 specs from them. #howmanydoyoureallyneedanyways?
Tanduay. I seriously need more of the Silver edition. Yummm.
Beauty & Butter. Thank you for constantly spoiling me.
Rustans & Big Seed. Thank you for all the opportunities this year- the Beauty Addict event was liiiit!
Rustic Steps. Dear Maria, you’ll go far. ❤
Let’s Stylize. Honestly Feline, where would I be without you???
Bibo!
8. Being able to work with different photographers.
Honestly, what would my instagram feed and blog photos be without awesome photographers? Thank you for allowing me to be the subject of your photos, guys. I can’t wait for more collaborations in the coming year!
John Ong
And of course, to my TRIPOD!
9. To the Hair Goddess
Blanche, you’ve taken a break from blogging to welcome a wonderful life form into this crazy world but before your baby, you brought life to a world I never knew of before- CRAZY HAIR COLORS. I want to thank you and Angelique for introducing me to something that has brought me out of my comfort zone and has given me so much fun this year. If it weren’t for you, my hair would be alive, for one (haha), but dull and untaken care of. So thank you, I miss you and please date me soon!
10, 11 & 12. Love, adventure & a million lessons.
More than anything, I am grateful for the gift of love whether it be platonic, romantic or passion for the things that keep us alive. I have learned soo many lessons, gone on so many adventures and loved completely- almost dry. I am so much smarter and better than I ever have and as much as I loathed a lot of parts of 2016, I will fondly remember this year.
To the people I love, spent this year with, no longer keep in touch- thanks for keeping it real!
This post is extremely long and that is because I am extremely grateful!
2017, HERE WE COME!
Issa P.
[VLOG] 2016 FAVORITES
GOOD BYE, 2016- BIG, BAD, HORRIBLE, AWESOME 2016.
It’s been good!
Always,
Issa P.
Budget Shopping @ WeDo Shop
Every woman’s weakness is a good shopping trip specifically when it involves the words bargain, sale, discounts, everything must go (this one is the best!) and the like. Throw in even more special words like American/ Korean/ Brand New and you’ve just created a lethal combination of words we cannot resist. So allow me to make a combination of words that I know a lot of you ladies (and even men!) will fall for:
Discounted +Brand New + Korean Items (++ make up, fashion, household items & more!)
you’re welcome.
WeDo Shop is a Korean lifestyle brand with 7 existing outlets in Manila and 1 at the Talamban Times Square right here in Cebu.
They boast of affordable Korean products from make up, fashion items, household fixtures/ decorations and other quirky items for as low as P49.00- imagine the possibilities!
So whether you’re hoping to stock up on your personal supply of beauty regimens or if you’re looking for cheap yet cute gift alternatives, WeDo should be on top of your list.
I helped myself to their counter of nail polish and some other beauty items which I’ll be posting on my Instagram within the week so make sure to follow me there!
WeDo Shop is located at 2nd floor of The Talamban Times Square and is open from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM on weekdays & 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM on weekends.
Follow them on Facebook for updates/ inspiration 😉
And when you’re done shopping, drop by Munch Bistro on the third floor to fill your stomachs!
Good luck to your wallets,
Issa P.
Release Your Inner Beauty Addict with Rustan’s, The Beauty Source
Mario Badescu is a beauty secret that has been kept within our family for a long time. For as long as I can remember, my mother, who has always insisted in a proper skin care routine has always kept Mario Badescu products in her vanity space for emergencies.
Our favorite being the drying lotion that quickly eradicates the onset of pimples by drying out the affected area right before you can say “omg, is that a pimple?!”
Another crowd favorite, which I have yet to try out is their facial spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater. I’ve personally never tried it yet but I’ve read great reviews about it and my favorite beauty gurus speak very highly of it! Follow me on //platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js“>instagram to find out what I’m talking about 😉
As for the A.H.A Botanical Body Soap, it feels extremely rejuvenating on the skin which is a great feeling especially after a long day of work and events. It has definitely made my bath time experiences a lot more enjoyable.
Since Mario Badescu Skin Care items are international products, some may have the notion that they are hard to find but luckily, this brand (and many others) can easily be purchased at Rustan’s The Beauty Source, located at the 1st level of Rustan’s Ayala Center Cebu. If you avail of their Beauty Addict Card, you can also get exclusive access to events invitation and special offers for makeup, skincare, fragrance, hair, nail and bath and body brands!
So how can you avail this prestigious Beauty Addict Card?
1. You must be of legal age (18 years old and above)
2. Make a minimum purchase of PHP 2,500.00
3. Fill up their digital application
#AreYouABeautyAddict? If you apply for the Beauty Addict Care in the store, you will also get an exclusive invite to the biggest beauty event of the year. Come celebrate beauty with Moet and all your other favorite brands at #RustansBeautyAddict. #OPENTHENEW #MOETTHEMOMENT #CELEBRATETHENOW
Please follow @rustansthebeautysource on Instagram and Facebook for more details. You may also check out:
Stay Beautiful,
Issa P.
We’ve Got More #ReasonToSmile with Beauty n Butter @ Ayala Center Cebu
What makes a good nail lounge?
Is it the ambiance, a good selection of reasonably priced services, a selection of products you can take home with you, clean utilities and well trained handlers? To me, it’s all these things that I have always sought after from Beauty & Butter.
Beauty and Butter has actually been in Cebu for a quite a while with their pioneering branch located at SM City Cebu. Their brightly plastered yellow walls are impossible to miss and even if you haven’t been in it, I’m sure you know what I’m talking about!
On the other hand, their second branch which is located at the Terraces of Ayala Center Cebu, is a lot more subdued and sophisticated- perfect for the tita in all of us. With neutral interiors and fixtures, it’s easy to unwind and enjoy some well deserved “me time” that we all need and enjoy. Their cocoon inspired couches, which is my favorite feature, allowed me to sink into it and doze off to the sounds of light chatter and faint music and wake up with posh hands and feet!
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Sterilized packs to ensure 100% cleanliness and safety. A million yes-es!
My favorite buttercup, Nina
With new ventures comes new surprises and this surprised comes with fresh pages, a nice leather jacket and freebies galore!
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For more inquiries about their products & services, check out Beauty & Butter’s Nail Lounge at the Terraces of Ayala Center Cebu (near the chapel & Flawless).
Remember, You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile,
Issa P.
Issa Talks... Alot 