Morning, guys. Today we have a pretty guest blogger to review an interesting liquid foundation. Say hi to Tracie, and don't forget to read her blog, Tracie the Diva! 

We all know that mineral foundation is healthier for our skin, especially for problematic skin. Without the harsh chemicals, the skin could benefit from fewer breakouts. But the annoying thing about mineral make-up is the mess since it’s usually in loose powder form. It takes more effort in applying the make-up and cleaning up your dresser. 

I think Kanebo has heard the woes of MMU users and created the KATE Mineral Liquid Foundation (P900). Though they are not the first to release mineral foundation in liquid form, so far it is one of the best I’ve tried!

Texture. As most liquid foundations are applied with either a sponge or a brush because most are thick and getting it even on the skin is a challenge, the texture of this liquid foundation is light but not runny so you can use your fingers to blend it out when you’re in a hurry.

I don't know what the Japanese put in their eyeshadows, but whatever it is, it's dope. It doesn't even matter if the brand is low or high-end - the eyeshadows are usually smooth and highly pigmented. You'll remember my review of the KATE Blendzone eyeshadow and how impressed I was with it. The new eyeshadow, the KATE Eye Shadow CQ (P960) is no less impressive.

Same as Blendzone, CQ is highly pigmented, creamy, long-lasting, well-milled - everything I'm looking for in a quality eyeshadow. The shades in this palette are all lovely and work great with my skintone.

The Kanebo Kate Gel Eyeliner (P660) has a sort of quiet yet esteemed rep among makeup enthusiasts here in Asia. You see, I've been hearing about this product for years as a great cheap substitute to the famous (and expensive) MAC Fluidline. So is it true? 

Well, yes.  

What I love about the product

• Extremely creamy to the point of being liquid. This makes the product easy to maneuver as it glides effortlessly on the lids without tugging.
• Applies as a true matte black in one swipe. No need to layer.
• Waterproof and stays put all day. There is a teeny bit of smudging, but it's not bothersome.

One of my most fervent dreams is having an affordable mineral foundation that's actually in pressed powder form. Imagine all the benefits of mineral makeup - all in a travel-friendly compact! No more messy loose powder that sticks everywhere and needs a special brush to use. So when I got my hands on the Kanebo Kate Mineral Powder Foundation (P900) I was hoping for a winner.

The newest foundation from Kate delivers well in terms of finish, texture, and reasonable price point. I love how it looks like on me and the convenience of being able to use the compact anywhere, but then there is one major caveat: my skin (stubborn as it is) does not like it. 

What I love about the product

• Smooth, flawless finish. The coverage is light to medium and doesn't get cakey when you build it up.
• The texture of the powder is finely milled and soft. Feels like powders from luxury brands!

I love good questions. I love asking them, more so when it comes to answering them! Some insightful readers asked two cool questions: the first is, how does the Kate Blendzone Eyeshadow duos compare to the Majolica Majorca palettes? Second, how does the Revlon lipstick in Siren compare to Revlon Coral Berry?

Japanese drugstore cosmetics, from what I've tried so far, seem to be at par with more expensive American and European brands. These two eyeshadow palettes from Majolica Majorca and Kanebo Kate are proof. But when it comes down to a choice, which one should you blow your money on?

I'm quite surprised that some people have never heard of KATE cosmetics before or the fact that it has arrived in the Philippines some years back. It's been around since I was in college (well at least, I only noticed it when I was in college and started getting interested in makeup) and I've been cursorily browsing ever since. Hmm, maybe it's not so surprising after all. KATE doesn't have a stand of its own since it's just displayed in the Coffret D'Or counters with no big sign.

Anyway, one of the products that the brand sent me is the KATE Blendzone eyeshadow in BR-1 (P780). It's a duo eyeshadow compact with colors that are designed to be used together. 

What I love about the product

• It's highly pigmented, creamy, long-lasting, well-milled - everything I'm looking for in a quality eyeshadow. Blendzone is comparable to the MAC and Urban Decay eyeshadows that I own.
• Fine shimmery finish that draws light to the eyes.
• Great for traveling. You can easily do a quick neutral look with the sponge applicator that comes with it, or you can use your fingers. 

The dark shade is a shimmery chocolate brown while the other one is beige/white