What is it? Jonathan's Green Routine Dry Shampoo is "an all-natural hair powder that cleanses and refreshes the hair and scalp without the use of water. The powder helps create volume at the root, and the portable brush makes application simple and convenient. Talc and aluminum hydroxide help to absorb oil, dirt, and product buildup. It's free of petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and silicone." Available in dark, light (and coming soon, black) shades for less than $20 from QVC.
What did you think? I received a sample of this product and have given it a try. Let me first post a disclaimer: I commit a terrible hair sin--I wash my hair every day. I tried this product a few times, after working out and getting my hair soaked with sweat (I blew it dry and then applied the dry shampoo).
Here's the good: I like the packaging of this product. It has a built-in brush to make applying the powder easy. It's small and spill-proof so you could easily toss it in your purse, overnight bag, or gym bag. The product is relatively simple to use and apply. And, like all of Jonathan's stuff, it's not tested on animals and is 100% vegan.
And the not so good: I just didn't see any vast improvements in the texture of my hair. I had a few splotches of light-colored powder that I had to brush through, but my scalp and roots still seemed a bit greasy. Maybe I should have used more product? I don't know...I was a bit nervous to over do it!
The final verdict? For me, I'd say this product is a pass. As I said, I'm in the horrible habit of washing my hair daily and really can't stand the way my hair and scalp feel when I miss a day.
I know that other people swear by dry shampoos and can get them to work. I'd rather just hop in the shower and get my lather on. We're all different! If you're not a daily shampoo-er or if you like dry shampoos, I'd recommend you give this one a try.
Beauty Product of the Week: Dry Shampoo
Beauty Product of the Week: Activated Thermal Mud
What is it? Caviahue's Thermal Mud will help "diminish the signs of aging now! Caviahue Thermal Mud is one of the most unique skin care products and deep cleansing facial masks in the world. One of its main ingredients is the thermal waters that flow from the inside of a volcano and are charged with the right minerals and oxygenated properties that purify the skin, leaving it smoother, softer and beautiful. You will feel a natural lifting of your facial and neck skin when you use the thermal mud regularly and as instructed.- Helps diminish the signs of aging
- Deeply cleans and purifies
- Unclogs pores and allows your skin to breathe
- Provides the balanced blend of minerals from Caviahue thermal water and Caviahue volcanic clay
- Leaves the skin smoother, softer and absolutely beautiful"
Beauty Product of the Week: Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash
What is it? Philosophy's Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash is "A mild, exfoliating facial cleanser. Designed to effectively cleanse the skin while providing resurfacing benefits. Gentle enough to use daily, this unique formula is sulfate-free and formulated with ingredients designed to replenish and protect the skin with topical antioxidants as it helps condition the skin and retain its moisture level." Available at department stores and Sephora for $25-$37.
What did you think? I love Philosophy's Purity Made Simple. It's the perfect face wash since it's both gentle and effective at removing dirt. I bought my mother a skincare kit from Philosophy recently, and the Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash was included for her to use in the morning. That piqued my interest.
I've been looking for something that I could use daily to gently exfoliate my skin. I didn't want anything that would be too harsh, so I knew Philosophy would be a safe bet. I keep this product in my shower and have been using it daily on my face, neck and chest. It is non-abrasive, but I can feel it working when I use it. It leave my skin feeling smooth and looking good.
The final verdict? I love this product and am certain that I'll become a regular user. This product is effective for all skin types (even sensitive skin) and it does an excellent job of smoothing skin while cleansing. It's a winner!
Beauty Product of the Week: DiorShow Mascara
What is it? Dior's DiorShow is a "cult-followed mascara that leaves lashes ultra thick, long, and curled.DiorShow Mascara is Dior's original, must-have mascara that delivers ultra-glam, catwalk-length lashes. Makeup artists all over the world use this product to create the longest, thickest, curviest lashes ever." Available at department stores and Sephora for $24.
What did you think? This may come as a surprise, but I do not like to spend a ton of money on beauty products. I also don't buy as many beauty products as you might think. However, there are times when I like to splurge and get something expensive and wonderful for myself...and when those times come, I tend to gravitate towards certain brands. Dior is one of those brands.
This is not a surprise to regular Kiss and Makeup readers, but I love, love, love mascara. It's my absolute favorite beauty product. A good mascara can make your lashes longer, thicker, and can accentuate the shape of your eye. I've used a million different brands--from the super cheap to the super expensive--and I must say: DiorShow has a spot in my top five all time mascaras.
DiorShow has a nice, fat brush that makes lashes thicker and longer with only one swipe. I use black mascara which makes my lashes super dark and really makes my eyes pop. Using a good eyelash curler and a decent eyelash comb along with DiorShow results in my eyes looking bigger. My lashes look made up, but not over done. And when it comes to mascara, there's a fine line between looking "done" and looking "over done."
The final verdict? $24 is a lot to spend on mascara, but I don't regret this purchase. DiorShow is a pleasure to use and it gives me the results I want. If you want to pamper yourself with a higher-end product, check this one out!
Beauty Product of the Week: Infinite Volume
What is it? Jonathan Product's Infinite Volume collection will help you "acheive lasting volume and voluptous hair effortlessly. The Shampoo, Conditioner, and Thickening Foam were developed with Jonathan's innovative Expansion Nanotechnology. This Interpenetrating Polymer Network delivery system utilizes chemical and electromagnetic forces to expand and strengthen the hair shaft creating volume from the inside out." The shampoo is $20, the condition is $22 and the thickening foam is $24. The entire collection is available at Ulta and online.
What did you think? Sometimes the ends justifies the means, and if you're a gal with limp hair, you might be willing to put up with a few minor annoyances to get fuller hair. In other words: Infinite Volume works...and works well. However, in my personal opinion, I have some reservations.
Let me say it again: this line will make your hair fuller. It will look thicker.
BUT...I have two issues: packaging and user experience.
Packaging: the products look cool...they really do. The bottles look sleek and modern, but the shampoo and conditioner bottles are identical. When it's early in the morning and you can barely see straight as it is, you want your shampoo and conditioner to be easily identifiable. With Jonathan Product, you really have to pay attention to make sure you're using the right product!
Experience: I like a shampoo that lathers. I know that the lather is not important, but I like it...I want it, and I need it! Jonathan's shampoo is lather-free. There's no lather to speak of and at first I was convinced that I grabbed the conditioner instead of the shampoo (I didn't...but with identical bottles, the doubt lingers).
I have found with ALL products that add volume my hair feels different. It does feel fuller, but it also seems to have a funny texture--almost like it's dirty, though I know it's not. The new texture makes my hair easier to style, but I don't love that feel. That's not a complaint of Jonathan Product specifically--it's just something I've noticed with volumizers.
The final verdict? If your hair is fine or limp and you really want something that will make your hair fuller, this stuff works and I'd recommend it...even though I am not 100% sold.
Beauty Product of the Week: Exfoliating Scrub
What is it? Clinique's Exfoliating Scrub is a "skin-clearing, water-based scrub for strong, oily skins. De-flakes, refines, softens tiny lines. Leaves skin refreshed." Available at Sephora and wherever Clinique products are sold for $18.
What did you think? Clinique's description of this product is insanely stark, but also accurate. While I don't have strong, oily skin, I've been using this product off and on for the past 20 years (really? How in the world did I get so old?!?) and have loved the results. Whenever I try a new facial exfoliator, I inevitably compare it to Clinique's old stand-by. And product after product, I like what I get from Clinique better.
My skin feels smooth and soft after using this scrub. It doesn't strip away any of the good oils in my skin, but instead sloughs away the dead cells that can dull my complexion. My skin looks rosier (in a good way!) and the texture feels so much better when I use this product.
The final verdict? In my world, Clinique's Exfoliating Scrub is a consistent, reliable, effective product. Also, for less than $20, this is very reasonably priced. Add this to your skin care routine (use it twice a week), and you'll be happy with the results. I know I am! My skin's tone and texture are much improved. I've loved this product forever, and it remains one of my top 10 beauty products of all time.
Beauty Product of the Week: Oxygen Infusion Masque
What is it? Sue Devitt's Microquatic Oxygen Infusion Masque is "a purifying masque that offers a dual result. Through self-foaming activation, oxygen molecules are released into pores then gently cleanse and remove impurities and environmental pollutants. Skin appears firmer, softer and healthy-looking. The unique infusion of Microquatic Complex hydrates while Blue Algae, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein and Chamomile Extract reduce redness and irritation, help control sebum production and soothe the skin." Available at drugstore.com and Ulta for $40.
What did you think? The first thing you notice about this product is its bright blue hue. And I must admit that I am not a big fan of the way this product looks. But looks don't really matter, because overall, I really like this Oxygen Infusion Masque.
The product feels good on my face. It foams up a bit and it feels like it's working hard to clean out my pores. And though it leaves my face feeling tingly and clean, I don't feel like it's harsh or that it stripped out too much of my face's good oils. I also really, really like the way this product smells--it's clean, light, and fresh, and I was thinking that the scent is so nice, Sue Devitt should bottle it and sell it as a perfume!
The final verdict? Though I was sent this product for free to try out, I would definitely buy it with my own money. It makes my skin feel clean, look good and feel good. What else could you want in a skin care product?
Beauty Product of the Week: Orgasm Illuminator
What is it? NARS Orgasm Illuminator is "A complexion enhancer that makes skin look instantly refreshed, radiant, and glowing. NARS Orgasm Illuminator lights your skin from within! Deceptively sheer and decidedly luminous, it magically transforms lackluster skin into a remember-me, luscious complexion. Flirt with foundation, go it alone, or go neck-and-neck with your decolletage. The effect is, well, orgasmic." Available at Sephora and department stores for $29.00.
ME (asking a terrible question of my poor hubby): Do you notice anything different about my skin?
HUSBAND (looking worried): Um...you look fine to me. I guess your face is not as pink.
ME: Does it look better or worse than normal?
HUSBAND: It looks good. It looks more white, more like...I don't know...like marble.
ME: Does it glow?
HUSBAND: Yes, it kinda does. It's not shiny; it's more of a glow.
ME: Do I sparkle?
HUSBAND: No. You're not a Twilight vampire.
ME: So much for Team Edward.
In all seriousness, I do notice that when I wear this illuminator, my skin does have more of a glow to it. And there is less pink to it, which is great. It's also a bit surprising since the product comes out of the tube looking very rosy and a bit sparkly.
I've used the illuminator all over and just in certain spots and I prefer it for an all-over base before foundation. I don't have a heavy hand when applying it, which I think is a good thing. If you use too much you just might look like a Twilight vamp, and that's not such a great look.
The final verdict? I had high hopes for this, and so far it has lived up to expectations. It really gives my skin an inner glow without sparkling or making me too shiny. A nice addition to my makeup case!
Beauty Product of the Week: Glossblossom
What is it? Mark's Glossblossom Ripening Lip Tint, "goes on clear, then ripens to a juicy pink to leave lips tinted and shiny. Alluring, personalized pink tone lasts even after the gloss is gone." Available from Mark (a division of Avon) for about $6.50.
What did you think? This product looks a lot like Smashbox's O Gloss, a product I tried back in 2008...a product I was less than thrilled with back then.
The Mark version is much more budget-friendly. Like O Gloss, it goes on clear and then develops into a personalized pink tint. I liked the general idea of this product when I tried it. My main complaint with the Smashbox product was that it didn't seem special enough to warrant spending over $20.
Mark's glossblossom smells strong when you first apply it, and that super sweet, super strong smell initially frightnened me. Thankfully, the actual product doesn't taste as sweet (it has very little taste whatsoever) and is not in any way offensive to wear. The color is subtle, but like O Gloss, I think this product feels a little heavy on my lips.
The final verdict? If you like the idea of a lip gloss that adjusts to your personal coloring, that's easy to use, and that's subtle, give glossblossom a try. Also, if you've been curious about Smashbox's O Gloss, try Mark's glossblossom instead. You'll save yourself a ton of money for a remarkably similar product. As for me? I am on the fence with this one.
Beauty Product of the Week: Bust Lift
What is it? Lierac Bust Lift Cream Modelage "contains hazelnut oligopeptides to help restructure the bust’s shape with a collagen boosting action, while Japanese mandarin orange extract reduces and prevents the appearance of brown spots. The décolleté feels tighter and smoother." Available online and at CVS for $45 (there is also a spray that does a similar job).
What did you think? I don't have brown splotches on my chest (yet!), but I am prone to having pink blotchy skin (sexy!). The skin on my decolletage is also prone to dryness, so using a cream daily can only improve things.
The cream is pink and smells lotion-y. Crappy description I know, but it does smell like a high-end skin cream. It absorbs well into my skin and the whole application process is pleasurable (it's a twice daily booby rub, so what's not to like!?).
My skin is still a bit blotchy, but it feels better. The texture seems smoother, more even. I am not entirely sure if the skin is any firmer yet, but it's not any worse than when I started.
The final verdict? Not bad. I am only into week 2 of my 4 week trial, but so far, so good. Regardless if it's this cream or something else, I think adding a twice daily decolletage cream is going to be part of my new beauty regime.
Week of Beauty Products (4): Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
What is it? Neutorgena's Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask "is a breakthrough acne-fighting formula that can be used two ways:
- As a Daily Cleanser to kill the bacteria that can cause blackheads and breakouts. Gently massage the rich creamy lather over skin and rinse with water.
- As an Intensive Mask for deep cleansing and extra oil control. Smooth an even layer over skin, allowing the formula to penetrate for up to 5 minutes before rinsing with water. You'll feel it's cooling intensity build as it penetrates into the pores."
What did you think? I used this both ways--as a face wash and as a mask. As a fave wash, I found this product to be over-drying. I don't have acne-prone skin and prefer something a bit more gentle for an everyday cleanser.
As a mask, this product is much better. It goes on cool and then kind of tingles as it sits. I guess the tingle is how you know it's working? Anyway, it leaves my skin feeling very clean and like I dunked my face in menthol. And that's not a negative comment!
Be careful with this product for two reasons:
1) It can make your skin dry out. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer if necessary.
2) It contains benzoyl peroxide so it can stain or discolor fabrics (especially towels....just ask me how I know!).
The final verdict? It's a good price and it's made by normally reliable Neutrogena, so that's a plus. Watch out for over-drying (and be careful with your towels) and you're set. I would recommend it for use as a mask to avoid the over-drying issue.
Week of Beauty Products (3): Knu Anti-Aging Tri-Complex
What is it? Michael Todd's Knu Anti-Aging Tri-Complex is "the first cream in the United States to include this amazing anti-aging breakthrough. The cream has a high concentration of purified snail secretion manufactured exclusively for Michael Todd in an FDA Registered Facility here in the U.S.
Research published in The International Society of Skin Pharmacology Journal reveals the regenerative properties of snail secretion and its effects on human skin. Scientists have concluded that this same substance can aid many human skin disorders because of its regenerative properties, considering it a real breakthrough in natural skin treatment. According to the study, snail secretion protects against free radicals, environmental pollution and UV radiation.
KNU is luxuriously rich and creamy, not greasy or oily, with a fresh clean smell and is rapidly absorbed into the skin where it can go to work." Available online for $130.
The cream is thick and luxurious and a little goes a long way. Because it's winter, my skin is dryer and at times flakier than I'd like. Lovely, huh? KNU seems very moisturizing--it clears up my flaky patches with very little product. I just put some on, and when I run my fingers over my cheek, they seem softer.
I cannot yet attest to the anti-aging properties of this product. I'll need to give it more time (I've only been using it for a week) to see how it plays out.
The final verdict? Again, I need to give this one a little more time to really see what it can do. It does feel good going on and so far I'm happy with the results. Snail snot! Who knew?
I just wish it wasn't quite so expensive!
Week of Beauty Products (2): Shielding Lotion
What is it? Skin MD Shielding Lotion "is far more effective as a dry skin treatment than conventional moisturizing lotions or protective creams. If you suffer from dry skin, you know that just using a moisturizing lotion does not solve the problem. A shielding lotion does much more than just treat dry skin – it is a new kind of skin care product that makes a real difference to all skin types.
Skin MD Natural is promptly absorbed, without the slightest hint of any greasy or oily feeling or residue, transforming the outer layer of skin into a hydrating invisible shield." Available online for less than $20 a bottle (I saw it as high as $18 and as low as $10--shop around).
What did you think? At first I was nervous about using a product designed for "face, hands, and body" on my face. I was scared that it would be too heavy. I was gladly mistaken.My husband uses this product every day (I've used it occasionally), so his review of the product was important to me. He says the product absorbs easily into his skin. He doesn't feel greasy--or, as he puts it, "sweaty,"--after applying it. He says the dry patches on his skin are minimized after using it, so it does exactly what a moisturizer is meant to do.
Another plus is that it's fragrance-free and it is not tested on animals.
I found that I had a hard time figuring out how much of the product to use at first. It seemed that when I applied the product, I had too much on my skin. But after a few minutes, my skin seemed to have sucked up the moisturizer and felt a bit tight--a bit in need of more moisturizer. (I don't need to point out that my husband and I have different skin types!) After a few days of using it, I figured out how much to use...problem solved.
The final verdict? I really do like the fact that this can be used on all skin--face, hands, body, etc. I'm a fan of a multi-tasker, so I say give this one a try!
Week of Beauty Products (1): One Essential
What is it? Dior's Capture Totale One Essential Skin Boosting Serum is Dior's "most advanced, scientifically proven skincare to help maximize the results of all age-defying skincare routines. One Essential Skin Boosting Super Serum helps to detoxify skin cells to powerfully correct all visible signs of aging and renew skin's youthful appearance. Applied before any other skincare products, One Essential boosts their effectiveness and extends the benefits over time. The skin regains its vitality, becomes more luminous, smoother and visibly younger-looking." Available where Dior skincare products are found (high-end department stores like Nordstrom's) for $95.
What did you think? Let me first say that I did not pay for this product. I received a sample from the Dior folks and have been using the product for about a month. $95 is a lot of money...I am very much aware of that.
I used this product twice a day--morning and night--before using any of my other products. It goes on lightly and has a pleasant, delicate scent. I only used a small amount of the product each time, and it absorbed well into my skin. I didn't feel like I was over-moisturized or greasy feeling.
My skin seemed smoother and more balanced after this product. I don't have tons of wrinkles yet (emphasis on the yet!) but I did notice that my areas of concern (I have a crease above my nose, and my eyes and mouth area are always a concern!) seemed smoother, tighter.
The final verdict? I think I need to continue to use the product to fully get the benefit. I do like the product, but I really don't like the idea of spending $95 on one skin product. It's effective, it's a pleasure to use, but I do think it's cost prohibitive.
Beauty Product of the Week: SkinRise Bionic Tonic
What is it? Exuviance SkinRise Bionic Tonic is "an intense moisturizing, antioxidant tonic with PHA anti-aging benefits. This powerful toning, moisturizing, antioxidant and anti-aging product will awaken your skin, spirit and senses. Will result in revealing a healthy, radiant complexion, with enhanced clarity, smoothness and youthful glow. Contains Vitamins A, C and E and green tea extracts to help protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals and harmful environmental factors. For stressed skin, use in place of your daily toner. Packaged in convenient single use pads. Follow with moisturizing sunscreen SPF 15. For all skin types. (Made of a) blend of Polyhydroxys including Gluconolactone, Glucoheptonolactone and Lactobionic Acid Marine botanicals (that) help moisturize and condition the skin; eucalyptus and cucumber refine and stimulate; grapefruit and peppermint extracts refresh and purify. Oil-free, Alcohol-free" Available for online for $40.
What did you think? When I first got this product in the mail to try, I tried it in the morning. Big mistake! My skin was way too shiny and felt too tight. But when I used it at night I really liked it.
You just wipe the pad over your clean face and let the product do it's job. I really felt like one pad coated my skin well. It was almost like I had a face mask on! It made my skin not only feel coated, but slightly shimmery and tacky. I felt well hydrated. In the morning, my skin feels soft and well moisturized.
The pads remind me of Oxy pads I used when I was a kid to battle zits. The product has a very fresh though somewhat strong smell. I get the grapefruit but not the peppermint. Either way, when I swipe it over my skin, it makes my face feel a bit tingly--and I like that!
The final verdict? I've been using this product for a few weeks now and, like I said, it does make my skin feel soft. I'm not sure it's doing much else that I can see, but it is pleasant and easy enough to use. Also, I've been using it about every other day since it does feel so hydrating. That means I can stretch the pads out longer, which is a good thing since each pad costs more than $1.00.
Beauty Product of the Week: Lashlight
What is it? Lashlight mascara by Too Faced is "an innovative mascara formula containing millions of microscopic mirrors that bounce light off lashes for a super-glossy, jet-black finish with an exclusive light up wand to spotlight each lash for the most precise application possible.
Lashlight is formulated to thicken, lengthen, and condition while coating lashes with the glossiest of jet-black finishes to make eyes look brighter, whiter, and camera ready. A combination of Panthenol and Vitamins C and E keep lashes healthy and Red Algae increases Keratin resistance for maximum lash flexibility. The patented formula contains millions of microscopic mirrors that bounce light off lashes for the deepest, jet-black finish that lasts all day." Available at Sephora and department stores for $25.
What do you think? I normally love Too Faced products. Their eyeshadows are ah-mazing and worth every penny. They also tend to have really fun box sets that make for great gifts. So I was excited to try this mascara.
The light is bright and lets you see your lashes pretty well. I don't know that it helped me apply the mascara in any way, but I guess the thinking is "more light, better application." The actual mascara itself made my lashes look very black. I don't know if that resulted in brighter eyes, but it did help make my lashes more noticeable.
The mascara did not clump at all, which is a bonus. It also made my lashes longer, but it didn't make them any thicker.
The final verdict? This product is a bit gimmicky. The light is ok; the mascara is ok. All in all, everything about this mascara is just ok. Not great. Not bad. Just sort of "meh." For $25, you can find a better mascara.
Disclosure: A press sample was received.
Beauty Product of the Week:
What is it? LypSyl Lip Balm "has been the first choice of European lip care users for generations. The brand originated in Sweden over 100 years ago, with a name derived from Swedish to communicate the soothing and natural benefits of beeswax. For the American market, the product has been reformulated with pure Swedish beeswax and an advanced blend of natural and therapeutic ingredients.
Made with pure Swedish beeswax, LypMedication with Eucalyptus. Helps soothe, moisturize & protect your lips naturally with over 100 years in Swedish Lipcare, LypSyl knows to bring out your natural beauty. Contains:
- Minty Flavor: Refreshes
- Coconut Oil: Moisturizes
- Organic Shea Butter: Heals & Protects
- Vitamins A&E: Softens & Heals"
What did you think? Like a lot of you, if I need lip balm, I reach for Burt's Bees. I guess I'm a creature of habit.
LypSyl is hitting the American market and I've been testing out a tube lately. And so far? I like what I'm seeing from the product. Here's the good:
- the packaging is super cute. There's a little bee on the side that you use to slide the product up. I know it's gimmicky but I think it's super cute. I also like that the tube isn't perfectly round. I don't know how many times my Burt's Bees has rolled off my nightstand. With it's slightly flat sides, rolling is not a problem.
- the product goes on easily. It coats well and feels great. My lips feel moisturized, not sticky or gunked up with thick balm.
- the flavor is good. It's not as strong as Burt's Bees, which is fine with me.
- the moisturizing benefit lasts and lasts. Love that!
The final verdict? The product is super cute and the formula matches the cuteness. I give it a big thumbs up and think that LypSyl is a great change from the usual Burt's Bees. Since Christmas is coming, this is a perfect stocking stuffer idea!
Disclosure: A press sample was provided.
Beauty Product of the Week: Smoothing Face Polish
What is it? Boots Botanics Smoothing Face Polish is a "creamy exfoliating face polish that is gentle enough to use every day, removing impurities and dead skin cells. Leaves skin naturally soft, smooth and radiant." Available at drugstore.com and at Target (wherever Boots products are sold) for less than $9.00.
What did you think? When I think back about my beauty history, I can easily remember that one of the first fancy-schmancy products I used was Clinique's Exfoliating Scrub. I started using it back in the late 80s and I still love it. I mention this because Smoothing Face Polish from Boots reminds me of my Clinique fave.
The Boots polish has a faint almond scent that I really like. If you're not a fan of almondy aromas, you may not agree. But for me, almond is almost always better than vanilla. The exfoliators in this polish are very gentle, but they do an excellent job of softening my skin without stripping away too much oil.
Boots has a bunch of certified organic products under their Botanics line, but so far this is my favorite. I really can use it every day without worrying about irritation or over-drying.
The final verdict? It's a winner! It's gentle but it does soften and smooth skin, so thumbs up!
Disclosure: A press sample was provided.
Beauty Product of the Week: Fantasy Lengths
What did you think? I gave a set to my sister's friend and co-work (they're science nerds who work at a blood center) and asked her to send me a review. Here's what Lindsey had to say about this product:
As far as my lash critique credentials are concerned -I want to be fantastically better with them- I have purchased a few pairs of those Halloween fantasy lashes, that never worked. A few of the old school Ardell brand full eye lashes and of course a MAC lash extension.
So far the MAC lashes have been my favorite, as well as the DUO glue that they come with. I dabbled with the 1/3 lash, which is the tiny 1/4inch lash that fits at the outer edge of the lash to give you more of the almond bedroom eye... and love the result! But no one would ever know that I had them on.
The same goes for the Revlon lashes...other than getting them to stick to my inner eye all day (due to my eyelids getting shiny), which i just pinch back into place throughout the day I think they are quite fab. The glue dries quick and the lashes even feel light and not bristly like some of the fluffy dense lashes can be.
SO! In my weakened morning state I opened the package, probably the most difficult step in this whole process, and of course read the awkward directions. The directions say to put the glue on the back of your hand and then use a q-tip to apply the glue to the lashes.... um, no thanks.
I started with my right eye. At first I put a dollop of glue on the plastic package and ran the lash through it after a few seconds of drying time. This method worked and the lash went on very nicely. For the second lash I went old school and applied the glue directly to the lash from the itty bitty tiny glue nub they gave you. I also blew on the lash to speed the drying process - this glue does dry rather quick which was a plus. I am not sure if it was my application method or, my awkward lack of skill but, the first lash (glue to the container and lash drug through it) stayed on much better all day. The right hand lash I also placed more towards my inner eye and maybe that was why it stuck better?
I took note of how my lashes looked ahead of time... long but not impressive. I put some of my BareEssential Big tease on my real lashes - just to layer pigment on them so i could see them better before i started... applied the lashes and was rather impressed with just the initial result. They looked like my lashes just longer and with many more of them sprouting out of my lids. After that i then used my MAC fluidline eye pot in blacktrack and lining brush to go over the lash line and combine my real lashes with the base of the the fakies. It would have been a pretty doe eyes day if i stopped there but because i have very severe issues with mascara and LOVE LOVE it i had to be bad and then at the base wiggled in some MAC zoom fast black lash and dabbed at the outer tips with the tip of the brush to add a lil extra va-va-voom. STILL I look like I just have amazingly long and pretty lashes that I was naturally blessed with.
I likey - but I'm wondering just how long this glue nub will end up lasting me before it dries out or leaks from the not so tight lid.
The final verdict? Overall I am impressed with what Revlon has offered up. And, if I could easily find a way to get both eyes on quickly and not be frustrated with the process every morning i would convert and maybe ease of the mascara wand. I'm sure that the cost is lower than that of MAC or other brands I would find at Sephora and that if need be i could find Revlon a coupon to help with cost.
Thanks, Lindsey for the great review! Sounds like the Revlon lashes are a great alternative for more expensive ones. Nice budget saver!
Beauty Product of the Week: Skin Brightening Cleanser
What is it? Boots Botanics Skin Brightening Cleanser is a "cleanser for more radiant skin. Cleansing your face daily is the perfect opportunity to encourage cell renewal for a brighter complexion. This gentle cream not only melts away daily grime and makeup, it also helps reveal soft, radiant and healthy looking skin." Available at Target for about $7 (or less!).
What did you think? I bought this product because I was out of Purity Made Simple (from Philosophy) and needed a face wash. Since I normally really like Boots products and because I was already at Target, I picked up this cleanser.
Big mistake.
First off, I didn't use it correctly. I used it like I would a normal face wash. That is, I wet my face, pumped some product into my hand and rubbed it into my skin. I washed it off and was done. Then I read the back and learned I was supposed to "sweep (the product) over face and neck...using cotton wool. Wipe off gently." What? What the hell does that mean?
I like my skin cleanser to feel good on my skin...to gently remove dirt and makeup in a way that feels good. This did not feel good, not even when I used it correctly. And I don't think the cleanser did that good of a job cleaning. Or brightening. It was just blah all the way around.
The final verdict? Sometimes, being cheap ends up costing you more. And that's exactly what's happened here. I didn't feel like forking over the big bucks for my favorite face wash, and I went with this clunker instead. Now I have a product I'm not happy with and I still need to go out and get my Purity Made Simple. Grrr!
