Fragrances -Unlisted Brand - Tsi - La Organics
illeyad 5/3/2011 12:05:00 PM
The Tsi La organic fragrances are a wonderful concept, however I felt it was not perfectly executed and still requires some tweaking. I tried a variety of scents from this reputable line, including: Misaki, Ilang Ilang, Kizes, and Kesu. Misaki smells of, lavender, tea, bergamot, mint, vanilla, and neroli. The scent was surprisingly refreshing, very cool, and suitable for the Spring. It also had an interesting floral with hint of vanilla and neroli dry down- very warm and inviting. It’s one of two Eau De Parfum’s available from Tsi La, coming in a elegant 50ml glass bottle for $95. However, the lasting power was about 5 hours. Ilang Ilang, was my least favorite. It is described as a creamy floral with citrus and vanilla bursts. The scent from the bottle reminded me of the lavender and vanilla Silky Underwear Dusting Powder from Lush. I was tempted to try it. At first, it smelt warm and inviting, but suddenly dried down to a ‘creamy corn’ smell. I know- strange. Perhaps it did not react well to me. Lasted for about 2 hours before fading into a subdued odor. This only comes in a small 4ml bottle, for $40. Kizes, is characterized by notes of citrus, bergamot, jasmine, and flower petals. A lovely sounding combination, but on myself, it was very unmemorable. The scents blended together to create a unique unisex fragrance that was earthy and mellow, but lacked charm and intrigue. Lasted for about 3 hours. Also comes in a small 4ml bottle, $40. Kesu, is made up of amber, smoky incense, jasmine, spices, and fresh lime. This was definitely those unique, of the scents I tried. It had a rich smoldering base, with a lush fresh overtone. I would have bought this for sure, if it were not for the poor lasting power of 3 hours, and for the price tag which made me hesitate. Only 4ml’s for $40. Overall, I love the moral ethics behind this company, however the fragrances failed to fully satisfy me. I also feel that the asking price is rather steep for the small quantity of product you receive (excluding the EDP’s such as Misaki). Had the perfume oils been better formulated to last longer and maintained their complexity, I would have loved to own one. Happy Shopping!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Skincare - Body -LUSH - Mange Too massage bar
illeyad 4/28/2011 9:06:00 PM
Mange Too is a unique massage bar to the Lush collection as it is the only edible massage bar. PROS: (1) amazing aroma, it smells like white chocolate, honey, shea butter, and mint- not to mention the balance is delicate and not cloying. (2) This scent is identical to honey trap lip balm. (3) A little goes a long way- it leaves the skin soft, and acts well as a solid massage oil. Be careful not to use too much because it does not sink in completely. CONS: (1) Although it’s edible, the flavor could use some work. I’m pretty sure you are meant to use it with a intimate partner, I tried it off my hand and I thought it tasted like mint and shea butter- I wouldn’t go out of my way to ‘share’ this with someone else, if you catch my drift. Overall, awesome product. I would definitely get this again, especially for the smell right before bed, it is very comforting. Happy Shopping!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Skincare - Body -LUSH - Strawberry Feels Forever massage bar
illeyad 4/28/2011 9:03:00 AM
This product is really cute and satisfies the little girl in me. The scent smells like strawberries and cream- but to be more precise, it reminds me of Breyer’s Strawberry ice cream. It smells identical to Yummy Yummy Yummy shower gel (which has been discontinued). As a massage bar, it is one of the better formulas. Not only is it effective to use as a solid body oil for giving yourself (or a special partner) a pleasant massage. After you’re done rubbing it in, it starts to sink in, leaving your skin lightly moisturized, while smelling of sweet strawberries. I prefer to use mine in the evening; especially if I was at the gym; because it feels good to pamper yourself before bed. Not to mention, the aroma is very comforting, it clings to your skin all night and even into the day, if you don’t shower. Since it does contain a considerable amount of oil, it also takes a while for it to sink in, if you use it by day, you might feel a little greasy. Overall, I don’t see myself running back to Lush every time mine runs out. I see myself using this once and a while when I am especially craving strawberries. Happy Shopping!
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Fragrances -Hugo Boss - Boss Orange by Hugo Boss
illeyad 4/14/2011 1:00:00 AM
This fragrance is not bad, but not my favorite. I would not mind smelling it on others, but I don’t plan to make it my own either. This perfume has top notes of sweet apple, heart notes of white flowers and orange blossoms, plus a base of creamy vanilla, sandalwood, and olivewood. PROS: (1) the opening of the fragrance is marvelous. A perfect blend of the notes described- which lasts for about 3 hours before simmering down. (2) Sienna Miller as the face for the fragrance was a nice touch- she appeals to modern charm while staying fresh and fun. CONS: (1) lasting power is poor. The fragrance remains for about 6 hours in total. (2) After the initial 3 hours of warm apple with creamy warm undertones- it turns into a sweet caramel apple dry down- that is overly sweet. (2) The bottle. I know a lot of people seem to like it, and it was advertised as ‘modern and spiritual. The bottle is orange and glass with 7 cut crystals that are supposed to represent the 7 chakras- thus streamlining it. I personally thought it was a throwback to the 80’s when those cubed light up glass walls (or bars) were vogue. It lacked the delicate or sexy look of flacons that I already owned. This fragrance fell short for me. The concept was wonderful, but the execution was poor. Perhaps if they spent more time perfecting the formula- it would have been perfect. The sweet dry down was too overpowering reminding me of a cake shop. I think this fragrance would be beloved by teen girls though. Otherwise, I will note that the cologne counterpart is far more appealing and sensual. Too bad they could not have done the same for the women’s fragrance. Happy Shopping!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Skincare - Body -LUSH - Shimmy Shimmy Massage Bar
illeyad 4/13/2011 11:14:00 PM
I am starting to wonder if these are not made equally. The photo suggests a subtle glimmer, but the ones sold at my location are sparkly, not shimmery. They have a lot of chunky glitter in them, which is strange because I feel like it takes away from the affect I am going for. I wanted my skin to look dewy, but the one I have makes it look glittery from the chunky bits. Which is a shame since the soft shimmer present in the bar is lovely. The scent is delicious- it smells almost like the original therapy- lavender and vanilla with a hint of honey. Really delightful. My only other complaint is that the amount your receive is rather small compared to the other bars- especially since you still want to rub this all over your body for a dewy effect. Overall, this is okay. If my store has ones that are less glittery and more shimmery, I will be all over them. Until then, I’ll pass it by. Happy Shopping.
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Fragrances -Donna Karan - Cashmere Mist
illeyad 4/13/2011 10:58:00 PM
Cashmere Mist is so perfectly named. I really do think of cozy sweaters, fireplaces and snuggles. I have tried both the Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum- and to tell you the truth I am surprised they are not reviewed separately since they seem so different on the skin. So I will review the fragrance in two parts. However, first you should know the fragrance notes. Cashmere Mist has a fresh top note of Apple, floral middle notes of Jasmine, Lilly of the Valley, and Suede, than a warm base note of Musk, Sandalwood, Amber, Cashmere wood and Vanilla. ---Cashmere Mist EDT--- The EDT version comes in a misted glass flacon that looks like a cut of ice. When spritzed on, I certainly pick up on the apple, cashmere, amber, and vanilla with a powdery over tone. The powdery effect of the fragrance gives it a mature quality, that is also cozy as well as capable of subduing the strong notes present. The dry down is less powdery and more amber and vanilla. I also detected licorice. Even though it was not listed it smelled so similar. The EDT definitely lasts much longer than the EDP. The EDT lasted for a good 8 hours on me before fading to a gentle tone of vanilla with that licorice note I detected. Overall it was a very lovely fragrance that seems to transcend age and season. As I mentioned, the powdery quality of the perfume matures it. ---Cashmere Mist EDP--- Comes in an ice cut flacon that is clear glass, unlike the EDT. The EDP is not as complex as the EDT, instead of opening up and changing, it seems to smell the exact same from start to finish. It’s hard to describe the scent because it was so different from the EDT. I didn’t notice any powdery overtone, it was very creamy and warm- but almost gourmand. I also noticed the licorice tone here, especially the vanilla, suede, and cashmere. The rest of the notes melded together to create something unique and distinct. This fragrance is more like a sister- similar but not identical. If you have ever smelt American Cream solid perfume (or conditioner) from Lush- it is almost identical to the EDP fragrance. Which is strange since the notes are different. Additionally, the lasting power of the EDP is half that of the EDT. I got 4 hours of continuous wear before it faded to gentle creamy floral vanilla that faded a few hours later. The EDP seems more youthful, but can also transcend age and season. Overall, I enjoyed both the EDT and the EDP (favoring the EDP a little more) however; I don’t plan to purchase a full bottle. I don’t feel that I currently identify with the EDT on a personal level. As for the EDP- there would be no point in spending money on $90 bottle, when I can get the American Cream Solid perfume for $9 and still enjoy an identical fragrance for less. Happy Shopping!
17 out of 17 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Fragrances -LUSH - Gorilla Perfume - Lust
illeyad 4/4/2011 10:16:00 AM
I can’t say I adore this scent in the least. I tried it on several occasions and still can’t get myself to like it. The nose behind this scent is, Mark: “I think what you're good at is what you like to do. I do believe that I'm good at jasmine. I wanted to do a really, really sexy, dirty, lustful fragrance and that's what I've done.” I have to give credit to the creator, he didn’t lie about what he was creating, he had a plan from the beginning. The main notes selected for this fragrance are Jasmine (very concentrated), ylang ylang, Vanilla, and Sandalwood. When I first spritzed this on, I thought the Jasmine note was heavy, but still sexy with the vanilla overtone, and sandalwood undertone. However after half an hour, the notes collided to create a very smoky jasmine with no distinction of the other notes. Other reviewers are correct in comparing it to Flying Fox and Godiva. That said, I must admit that these are my least favorites of the Lush line, so now you understand where I am coming from. Furthermore, if I had to portray what feelings or thoughts this fragrance brings to mind- it’s sex and cigarettes, dirty smoky, and musky. I am not saying smelling sexy is wrong, in fact I think it’s great and gives women a sense of confidence. However, I found this one made me smell cheap and sexy at the same time- an unfortunate outcome for me. Overall, I have rated it a 2, not out of disdain for the scent, but because I honestly think it could have been a lot better. Concentrating the jasmine was a bold choice, but I honestly found it was too overwhelming- the subtlety, sophistication, and sheer complexity of jasmine was completely lost in the making of this fragrance. I suppose on certain skin types- this might smell really amazing, but on me it was rather disappointing. Happy Shopping!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Fragrances -Pacifica - Tibetan Mountain Temple Perfume 
illeyad 4/3/2011 12:16:00 AM
I bought the entire Tibetan Mountain Temple line (both solid and liquid perfume, plus candle). I really am in love with this beautiful creation. Admittedly, I was disappointed with the candle. However, I am pleased to confirm both perfumes hold strong for me. I truly enjoy the combination of vetiver root, patchouli, ginger, and orange rinds, because it creates a very warm, soothing, and cozy scent. The liquid perfume, as expected, is the strongest of the two. It is more complex and has nice sillage. Not overwhelming in the least, but still carries presence in close proximity to the skin, so that only those close to you will get a whiff of this lovely aroma. The packaging of the perfume is very simple- it comes in a 1 oz bottle with no cap for $22 CAD. I would have had a preference to something more impressive to display on my vanity. As they say, never judge a book by its cover. I suppose this helps to keep the price down. For travel purposes, the $7CAD solid perfume version is very complimentary. I like to keep mine in my handbag to refresh my perfume near the end of the day, or when I am traveling. Overall, I am extremely pleased with this line of fragrances, this particular one being my personal favorite. I highly recommend if you enjoy perfumes with an incense tone to it, and quite simply want something comforting. Happy Shopping!
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Candles -Pacifica - Tibetan Mountain Temple
illeyad 3/30/2011 8:35:00 PM
I can’t help but wonder if I got a dud candle. I bought the medium size for $22CAD. I already own the Solid perfume as well as the spray on version. I absolutely adore the scent of Tibetan Mountain Temple. I find the combination of vetiver root, patchouli, ginger, and orange rinds to be exotic and soothing. I decided to buy the candle version to ‘complete my collection’ so I could not only enjoy it on myself, but in my room as well. The candles are hand made using soy way and lead free wicks for a clean and environmentally friendly burn. I also know that the Pacifica candles are its top sellers and what made the company so successful- so I was really expecting great quality. Unfortunately, I was left disappointed with my candle. The candle smells like a lighter version of the original perfume. However as soon as you burn it- it smells nothing like it at all. I could pick up the ginger with an incense undertone- but that was it. Not to mention the scent was light and uninteresting- the beautiful blend of fragrance that I initially fell in love with was not there. It smelt very smoky and woodsy, not warm and cozy like my beloved perfume. Additionally, my wick burned to quickly- I had 2/3 of wax still left and completely wasted. It looked like a gofer had tunneled down my candle! This might be why the scent throw (and scent overall) was so poor- because hardly any of it actually burned. Lastly, the entire thing only lasted for about 8 hours worth of burning time. Not 50. I will stay loyal to the perfume, but I’ll skip this product. I will, however, give another candle from the line a try (next time votive size). Even if this was a dud- it’s still disappointing, and perhaps suggests that there needs to be stricter quality control procedures. Happy Shopping.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Scrubs -Dermalogica - The ultimate buffing cloth
illeyad 3/30/2011 5:04:00 PM
This product lives up to the name ‘Ultimate Body Buffer.’ It’s a blue long rectangular cloth made of nylon fibers ideal for exfoliating your body. I have used traditional loofahs, and I have used the Renaissance Glove (similar product, but not as user friendly or hygienic as this cloth). PROS: (1) Leaves skin buffed and smooth- my legs look so smooth they are shiny! My whole body has this healthy glow. (2) Lathers products perfectly, you most likely will use less than usual. (3) Versatile! You can fold it into a small or medium square for particular areas like elbows or stomach. Plus, completely unfold it to evenly exfoliate your back. (4) Dries in 30 minutes- very hygienic. CONS: (1) Price tag. This was $27CAD- steep for something made of nylon. However, seeing as I won’t likely have to replace it often, it’s a worthwhile investment. Especially, since it replaces a traditional body scrubbing product- so I won’t retract this from the rating. I only bring this up because nylon is not exactly expensive to produce, and I feel some people will miss out on a great product because they are intimidated by the price tag. As I said, it’s justifiable because you won’t need to by body polishing products again. Definitely a worthwhile product, with no technical flaws. I highly recommend this product if you want to achieve smoother glowing skin. Happy Shopping!
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Liquid -Maybelline - Fit Me Foundation
illeyad 3/28/2011 8:36:00 PM
The only thing about this product that Fit Me, was the shade. The shade selection for this product line is undoubtedly excellent, however the quality of this foundation is questionable. I suppose I should not have expected too much from a $10 foundation, but a girl can Dream. PROS: (1) Smooth and easy application. (2) Does not accentuate dry spots. (3) dewy finish. (4) Evens out complexion. (5) Perfect match- rare for my pale complexion with warm yellow undertones. CONS: (1) Cannot layer this foundation otherwise it will appear cakey. (2) Appears oily after 3-4 hours of wear. (3) Post removing this foundation, my skin continued to produce excess oil. (4) Foundation made my skin break out after 5 days of wear. (5) Accentuates lines, after a few hours, foundation creases wear lines are present- for example my foundation would crack after a few hours in areas such as around my mouth or just under my eyes where I smile. (6) Pump would be preferable to prevent oxygen from oxidizing the foundation over time, and keeping it hygienic. Overall this product is probably ideal for those who have great skin (not acne prone) who are just looking to achieve an even complexion. Albeit a tinted moisturizer would probably be just as effective, if not, better. Happy Shopping!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Shampoo -Desert Essence - Organics Green Apple & Ginger Thickening & Volumizing Shampoo
illeyad 3/28/2011 11:54:00 AM
I wish I read the reviews on this product prior to purchasing it. I experienced a similar reaction as the reviewers below me- the product made my scalp itch, which quickly became a pealing rash. It was dreadful. I never expected such a terrible reaction from a natural based product. Additionally, the shampoo didn’t make my look healthy and full, instead it dried out my hair after only two washes. I am disappointed with this shampoo. Happy Shopping.
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Gels/Soaps -LUSH - Creamed Almond and Coconut Smoothie soap
illeyad 1/29/2011 11:38:00 PM
Wonderful shower smoothie that leaves skin unbelievably soft and smooth. PROS: (1) Smells like a decadent whipped dessert. It smells like creamy vanilla custard, honey, and almond. It is not a sweet scent, just warm and smooth. Plus, the scent is light enough to layer perfume over without conflict. (2) Leaves skin cashmere soft- I had so many compliments when people would touch my arms or brush past me. (3) This is most useful as a shaving cream for legs- it offers a better shave than my previous products. (4) This pairs perfectly with ‘Sympathy for the Skin’- the scent of this body lotion is the much lighter version of this smoothie. It will enhance the softening effects of this wash without clashing the scent. (5) Does not irritate my sensitive acne prone skin, the contrary- it sooths it. CONS: (1) the packaging comes in the Lush trademark pot. For shower products, it would be so much easier if they could use squeeze tubes to prevent water from ruining the product. (2) It hardly lathers, I honestly did not feel as clean when I used this alone without soap. Overall, I will buy this again during the winter to battle dryness, and occasionally as a shaving cream. Happy Shopping!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Treatments -Murad - Acne Spot Treatment
illeyad 1/29/2011 11:27:00 PM
This is a reasonable product for people who suffer from mild acne, and only plan on treating a few small-medium sized pimples. PROS: (1) non offensive odor. The sulfur ingredient is not overwhelming and fades within minutes after application. (2) treats small-midsize pimples reasonable well. I noticed a difference for some almost instantly, but it typically took about 3 nights for results to be prominent. (3) Great packing, it’s small, simple, and not wasteful. For effective for releasing and applying product, and it’s small enough to discreetly carry around. CONS: (1) Not very effective on larger pimples. (2) The sulfur ingredient is not strong enough in this particular formulation for my needs. It would be ideal if they had a gentle and strong formulation of this, since sulfur is so effective at treating acne. (3) Does not sit well under makeup. (4) Has a tendency to flake off after drying, this not consistently treating acne while applied. (5) No soothing ingredients such as Kaolin, to reduce redness while treating inflammation. Overall, this is a descent product, but I have used better products for treating acne. In my experience, I found that Dermalogica made a superior version (also using sulfur)- although more expensive. Regardless, I would still recommend it to those planning on treating a few odd spots. I paid $18 CAD at Shoppers Drug Mart. Happy Shopping!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Eye Primer -Smashbox - Photo Finish Lid Primer
illeyad 1/14/2011 12:47:00 AM
This primer is descent but not remarkable. I have somewhat oily eyelids with light veining that is apparent due to my pale skin. Prose: (1) Evens out the appearance of discolortion and veining. (2) stay put formula. (3) kept eye shadow perfectly in place for 12+ hours. Cons: (1) unhygienic tube packaging with doe foot applicator. (2) difficult to spread evenly. (3) Dry formula did not make for smooth application. (4) Formula drys out after 7 weeks. I paid $35CAD at Shoppers Drug Mart. There are far nicer for less then this. Happy Shopping.
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