Lotions/ Creams -LUSH - Creme Anglaise
illeyad 10/26/2010 12:21:00 AM
I am on the fence with this product. Lush is capable of coming up with high quality products, but it's no secret that Lush products can be expensive. This one is no exception. Typically Lush body lotions cost between $21-$26- which is already steep compared to the $9 drugstore brand, however the quality of the ingredients are without a doubt far superior. However, Lush decided to step it up a notch and created a new velvet whipped body lotion made with cold pressed oils, such as: Almond Oil, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, and Sweet orange oil. Paired with a moisturizing base of Shea butter and scented with Saffron, Vanilla, Myrth, and parfum* (all natural*). Here's a break down of what I thought: PROS: (1) divine lotion! the texture is softer than rose petals and marsh mellows, it's cooling and velvety. It applies beautiful and sinks in like a dream leaving skin feeling super soft even after you wash your hands or shower. (2) Great overall ingredients, excluding Myrth and Saffron. CONS: (1) the scent- as I said, the Saffron and Myrth give it a distinct overwhelming scent that does not leave your skin. Lush markets this as a good thing because 'this way you don't need perfume! And you smell like Creme Brule- All day!' First off- it smells nothing like Creme Brule- it's way too strong for that. Second, it's rather inconsiderate to create such a strongly scented product- especially if it's intended for daily use- and yes, the scent does last all day without fading. (3) The price tag $50 CAD, the only reason it is this expensive- is for the Saffron. I really wish they would formulate this product without because as far as we know, Saffron has no real benefits for the skin. I am not trying to make this product out to be bad, however- I just can't justify the $50 price tag, even the this feels divine on the skin! however the scent is a deal breaker as well as the reason for why the price tag is so expensive. If you DO love the scent, you WILL love the product, however if you don't like the scent, you will come to resent it. Happy SHopping!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Lip Treatments -LUSH - None Of Your Beeswax
illeyad 10/25/2010 7:28:00 PM
I bought this because I wanted a lip balm that would moisturize and make my lips feel smooth. This one is descent but acts more like an ointment than a lip balm. I'll explain: PROS: (1) excellent if you want a barrier to protect your lips, if you apply it at night, you will wake up with it still on. (2) smells like lemon, mandarine, and vanilla- so nice and refreshing. (3) No taste. CONS: (1) minimally moisturizes, even if you rub it in really well- it will not make your lips smooth and plump the next day. As I said, it's more like an ointment or protective barrier- that's it. (2) very gritty, you have to rub it in between fingers to apply it, than rub it along your lips to 'smoothen' the balm out so the balls of wax don't cling to your lips like eraser debris. (3) packaging, I don't like rubbing my fingers into the product, or scraping of a layer with my nails. I wish they used the same black push up tube packaging from the new Gueralla perfume line (solid perfumes). It would be so much more convenient for application in public or on the go. Overall, I was not too impressed. If you want a really moisturizing lip balm- Lush's Honey Trap is amazing, it feels like silk on your lips and does everything I good lip balm should. Happy Shopping!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Cleansers -Ponds - Deep Cleanser Cold Cream
illeyad 10/21/2010 6:36:00 PM
I am part of the minority. Yes, this product does live up to its reputation as far as it's makeup removing capabilities are concerned. With a full face of makeup, no matter how much I have on- it removes every little bit off down to the last speck. I know this for sure because I use a glycolic toner to treat my acne- normally when I swipe it over my face, trace amounts of makeup show up on the pad. However, when I use Pond's cold cream, nothing appears on the pad. It is certainly efficient. However, this product loses points due to the irritating parfum ingredient present in it (I could not find the fragrance free version anywhere). When I use this product my skin is left beat red, my acne inflamed, and my eyes sting so badly that I can feel my eyes burning for hours through the night. Considering the product is marketed as a- gentle for all skin type makeup remover- I feel it does not live up to this huge claim. I am surprised I had such an unhappy reaction to the product considering it's stellar reviews. Many people claimed it even made their acne go away (I suspect that those people suffered mainly from cosmetic acne, not hormonal). In short here's my breakdown: PROS: (1) removes all traces of makeup. (2) leaves skin feeling soft and smooth to the touch, even the next day when you wake up. CONS: (1) irritated skin. (2) clogged pores. (3) inflamed acne. (4) badly irritated eyes, no amount of eye drops could sooth them. Judging by the reviews, this product is either a real hit or a bad miss. I suppose this product is good for most, but for those who truly have very sensitive acne prone skin- approach with caution. Otherwise, if you generally have normal to dry skin, I could see why you would easily fall in love with it. Happy Shopping
6 out of 6 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Eye Shadow -Smashbox - Eyeshadow - Nude
illeyad 10/21/2010 3:21:00 PM
Beautiful matte light brown colour. The texture is smooth and very easy to blend. I prefer using this in my crease paired with Smashbox Champagne on my lid and a liquid black liner to create the perfect vintage cat eye effect. I really recommend this for anyone who has pale-medium skin tone and wants to enhance their look by creating a natural shading effect to give eyes depth. Happy SHopping!
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Eye Shadow -MAC - Retrospeck (Lustre)
illeyad 10/21/2010 3:15:00 PM
I am not sure why this product is so popular. It is very chalky, difficult to get a smooth application with, and appears glittery rather than shimmery on the lids. I honestly don't see why this product does well.
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Shampoo -Unlisted Brand - David Babaii for WildAid Amplifying shampoo
illeyad 10/20/2010 8:00:00 PM
This product had everything going for it. It is supposed to be a gentle product because it is paraben and sulfate free. The packaging is nice with it's rubberized texture making it easy to hold in the shower. It is a plus that the packaging is made from 100% recycled material. The shampoo was made in regards to Wild Aid- to presserve nature. The product itself smells wonderful- wild orchid and musky. Additionally the majority of the ingredients are all natural or organic. However, like with many other users- this product badly irritated my scalp. The ifrst few washes were fine, but after a week it broke out in irritated bumps (similar to acne) however these ones are itchy, and if you scratch them to hard to relieve the itching- they begin to puss. As my scalp started to heal, it began to flake a lot like dandruff as the damaged skin shed itself off and the fresh new cells to their place. I was very disappointed that this product bothered my skin so much- I thought for sure it would be ideal due to its positive ingredient list. Be careful, all natural does not always mean all better (and I love natural based products!), Happy Shopping!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Masks -Dermalogica - Sebum Clearing Masque
illeyad 10/18/2010 11:41:00 PM
The active ingredient in this product is Triclosan (0.2%)- this is an anti fungal and is typically used in toothpaste to treat and or prevent gingivitis. I suppose the idea here is to treat the bacteria on the skin- however research reveals that Triclosan's use in cosmetics is in dispute- some support it to be effective, some support it to be ineffective for acne. The product also contains Salicylic Acid to exfoliate to skin. Additionally,this formula contains Kaolin and Zink- two effective ingredients for soothing skin and reducing redness. As far as effectiveness goes- I found this product disappointing considering the $65CAD price tag. I was expecting it to make my skin feel fresh, reduce pore visibility by giving them an effective deep clean, and shrinking acne and reducing blackheads with each treatment. Although this mask did seem gentle on my sensitive skin and left it feeling clean, soft, and smelling good. I cannot say it actually helped with acne. It seemed less red- but that was it. The active pimples were not smaller the following day, nor the next, or the week after that. They did however- appear less inflamed. Further more, this mask did nothing to treat blackheads. No difference. As far as exfoliation goes, simple sugar and water is more effective than this. Since this product is so expensive, I expect optimal performance, not basic. Therefore, it gets a basic 3/5. It's not a terrible mask, but neither an amazing one either. I think it might be an okay mask if you plan to use it consistently in a routine for oily skin- but don't expect it to do much for acne (considering this comes from the acne line). If you are looking for a good spot treatment- the concealing spot treatment by Dermalogica from the same line is far better. Happy Shopping!
7 out of 7 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Lips -The Body Shop - Delipscious Tinted Lip Balm
illeyad 10/17/2010 12:43:00 AM
Really loving this product I bought this in 03 Berry Crush and definitely plan to make it a product staple! PROS: (1) very nice packaging. Even though it is just a tinted lip balm, they set it out in style with a nice silver tube with cap for packaging- yet still has that convenient twist up for effective application. (2) very mild yet natural berry scent. (3) perfect sheen! It makes lips appear smooth, seamless, and plump- definitely adds youth to the lips! (4) enhances my naturally pigmented lips by playing the tone done softening the look. (5) excellent for any occasion use because it acts as both a lip treatment and colour enhancer. (6) and of course- it's hydrating, at least for the spring, summer, and fall- I have yet to see how it holds up for the winter. CONS: product is very 'soft' so it can get a little messy in the tube and starts to melt on the sides- thus you must always keep it clean!! Luckily there is no leaking problem. I really like this product because it's simple yet multi purpose. A sure keeper for me in my product arsenal! Happy Shopping!
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Lipstick -MAC - Hot Tahiti Lipstick
illeyad 10/17/2010 12:35:00 AM
Great zesty colour for those who want to put some heat on their lips. It is a dark mix of red and pink- almost like a light burgundy colour. The colour itself is very rich and pigmented- but still build-able. One glide will give warm your lips up, but built it up and the colour will apply smooth amping up the tone to a much richer dark romantic tone. Overall, I enjoy wearing it on the more gentle side to enhance my naturally pigmented lips- I feel like it enhances my appearance by making me appear more mature and confident due to the bold edge it has. However- this product loses one lippie, because as usual- MAC lipsticks are on the drying side. Don't forget your lip balm ladies! Happy Shopping!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Lipstick -Maybelline - Color Sensational in Pinkalicious
illeyad 10/17/2010 12:26:00 AM
Finally! Maybeline come's out with a great lipstick formulation with their new Color Sensational line! The colour is a warm feminine pink with a glazed finish that makes lips look plumper and gives the colour a fun edge. The packaging is cute,t he lipstick itself is in a silver metal apllicator- the casing is a rectangular dark pink cover- which makes it easy to identify in your purse or makeup kit. The formulation is pigmented, smooth, and reasonably moisturizing. I would definitely put it on par with the likes of Clinique, Mac, and Este Lauder (but not as good as very high end brands such as Chanel or Dior). The only con is the 'clay lipstick scent' although lighter than most- it is still present. As wonderful as the product is, I don't think I will be repurchasing. I am having fun with the product now, however I see myself getting tired of the glazed finish in the future. I've always preferred matte or a simple sheen. However, this is just personal preference. It's still a good product. Happy Shopping!
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Lipstick -Maybelline - Color Sensational in Pinkalicious
illeyad 10/17/2010 12:25:00 AM
Finally! Maybeline come's out with a great lipstick formulation with their new Color Sensational line! The colour is a warm feminine pink with a glazed finish that makes lips look plumper and gives the colour a fun edge. The packaging is cute,t he lipstick itself is in a silver metal apllicator- the casing is a rectangular dark pink cover- which makes it easy to identify in your purse or makeup kit. The formulation is pigmented, smooth, and reasonably moisturizing. I would definitely put it on par with the likes of Clinique, Mac, and Este Lauder (but not as good as very high end brands such as Chanel or Dior). The only con is the 'clay lipstick scent' although lighter than most- it is still present. As wonderful as the product is, I don't think I will be repurchasing. I am having fun with the product now, however I see myself getting tired of the glazed finish in the future. I've always preferred matte or a simple sheen. However, this is just personal preference. It's still a good product. Happy Shopping!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Cleansers -Bioderma - Sebium H2O
illeyad 10/17/2010 12:14:00 AM
Great for sensitive acne prone skin. This product contains zinc and soothing ingredients that reduce inflammation in acne prone skin. PROS: (1) removes the majority of makeup- considering its gentle I don't expect it to remove all of it. (2) leaves skin feeling soft (3) reduces redness in skin and acne. CONS: (1) does not prevent acne or lower oil production in skin. (2) contains perfume- not ideal for most people with sensitive skin! (3) not user friendly- it is formulated like a toner- which makes it difficult to apply to the skin. I would have preferred a gel texture- however this is merely personal preference. (4) Very expensive given the simple formulation- $35 CAD per 250mL bottle! Overall, not a bad product. However there are much better on the market for my skin type. Happy Shopping.
3 out of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Deodorants -Dove - Clinical Protection Visibly Smooth
illeyad 10/17/2010 12:07:00 AM
Overall, this is a pretty descent deodorant that definitely comes through with it's promises. PROS: (1) great smell, I bought it in 'Wild Rose' it has a nice creamy clean rose scent that is very feminine. (2) feels creamy when applied- leaving skin feeling soft and smooth as it penetrates. (3) definitely helped with stubble!! I have coarse dark hair- waxing is very painful, and shaving is useless because when I do shave you can still see the dark hair under my skin. Hardly 24 hours after shaving and I already have stubble. But this let me get away with up to 3 days of no shaving- for me this is great! CONS: (1) average protection against sweating. If the weather was humid, or if I was at the gym- I would still be rather sweaty and I could smell my own sweat over the rosy scent of the deodorant. (2) If you miss even 1 night using this- you will notice almost immediate regrowth. Overall, not too shabby- I certainly intend to rely on this during the Spring and Summer months when I need it most. Happy Shopping!
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Deodorants -Dove - Dove Ultimate Visibly Smooth
illeyad 10/17/2010
On it's own- this product gets a 3, but in tandem with the Clinical Protection it gets a 4. However, since I am only reviewing for the single product, and it's not as effective as the clinical strength version, I will stick to giving it a fair 3 (if I could I would give it 3.5). PROS: (1) scent- it smells like creamy roses. I like it because it's fresh and clean as well as being very feminine! (2) provides adequate sweat protection. (3) does not leave white marks on clothing (provided you give it time to dry!). (4) Left skin feeling soft and hydrated. CONS: (1) did not improve the state of hair growth or stubbles. Thus why it gets a 3- the selling point in this product is to make the stubble less visible and give you extra time in-between shaves. When used with the Clinical strength product- it's very nice, but on it's own, it's very average. I don't plan to use this one anymore because I feel like the clinical version is better and much more effective. Feel free to read my review on this through my 'Product Reviewed' section. Happy Shopping!
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Treatments -Mario Badescu - Drying Lotion
illeyad 10/16/2010 11:52:00 PM
Now I see why there are mixed reviews on this product. I've used several spot treatments before, you name it- I've used it. This one is not ideal for people who get more then a few break outs a month. PROS: (1) dries up smaller pimples in 1-3 nights. (2) Brings small to mid size pimples to a head quickly. (3) despite the odd packaging, it is idea for this type of formulation and not difficult to use either. CONS: (1) Not effective on cystic or larger pimples. (2) When it brings pimples to a head, it only brings the surface bacteria out-not the bacteria thats trapped deep within the pimple- therefore it becomes a 'purplish red' colour- becoming inflamed from irritation. (3) Does nothing to sooth or reduce redness in acne to make them less inflamed during the healing process. (4) worsened the condition of my skin, rather than improving it. Overall, I am incredibly disappointed with this product. I expected it to be effective and dependable, but it just seems to be a waste of time. Happy Shopping.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No