Scrubs -LUSH - Brimstone
femmechirp 3/23/2011 4:17:00 PM
This product is not for the feint of heart. First, it's REALLY exfoliating (some reviewers have found it a bit too much for delicate skin. I find most body scrubs to be a bit wimpy, so I'm happy with the seriousness of this product). Second, the underlying smell (faint) is of sulphur, so akin to the striking of a match (which I happen to like, but probably not for everyone). Third, proper use is a bit technique sensitive (the product works best for me when I use the entire bar, that I've very carefully kept from ongoing exposure to moisture or running water, on my wet skin whilst standing out of the direct stream of the shower. Others, however, prefer to break off chunks to use as they go, while still others seems to like to pound it into a powder, make a paste and use that all over). Once I figured out the best way for me to use it, I couldn't be happier. My skin is, literally, as smooth as a baby's, all over (including my hips, butt, and upper back legs, which have historically defied most exfoliators). I like the underlying sulphur smell (again, very faint), as well as it's primary a soft jasmine smell (which is what I'm left with after rinsing). I did chunk a few bits and used them to scrub my hands, which are now wonderfully soft and smooth. I haven't tried it on my feet yet, but imagine I'll be pretty happy when I do. I wish there was a more convenient for Lush to package this product, and that's the only reason I'm not giving it a five, but I've already re-purchased it a few times.
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Treatments -Boots - No 7 Protect and Perfect Intense
femmechirp 3/23/2011 4:06:00 PM
I've been using this for about a week and am really glad. I'm 46, with fair, delicate, Irishy-type skin (so prone to fine lines and dryness). I wasn't using a serum prior to this, just gentle cleansing, non-alcohol toning and day (SPF) and night moisturizers. This product has actually made a difference in just a few days: my skin is smoother and little lines around my eyes, on my forehead and near the outer corners of my mouth are definitely less noticeable. I've had no breakouts or other side effects (my skin tends to be a tad sensitive). I plan to continue and will purchase the companion eye cream as well. At $22 (at my local Target), this is actually a steal for a high quality serum product (compared to other things I've purchased such as Skinceuticals, etc. @ $60+ for smaller containers). The packaging seems good, in that it encourages you to use a little at a time and that seems to go a long way. I'm a happy woman.
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Misc Beauty Tools -Clarisonic - Pro Skincare Brush
femmechirp 12/27/2009 11:16:00 AM
After many months of contemplation, I purchased the Clarisonic Plus a few days ago. I travel a lot for work and have a hard time keeping up with a regular professional facial schedule. And I tired of spending a few hundred $ every 6-8 weeks with my aesthetician. I'm 45, with a classically Irish complexion: fair skin, freckles and easily burnt. I'm neurotic about sun protection now, but wasn't in my misspent youth, so have some broken capillaries on my cheeks, compounded by what my DERM characterizes as a mild case of rosacea. Parts of my face are dry, while my nose and chin can become congested and break out. My nose is also the only place on my body with enlarged pores, which makes me crazy. I started using this brush with the sensitive brush head a few days ago, twice a day and I can already see results. The pores on my nose are significantly reduced in size and the chronically congested areas on my chin are clearing up and there's already less 'junk' under the skin in this location. My cheeks and forehead are also smooth and clear. I find the whole system very intuitive and easy to use. I'd read a few reviews here that suggested that changing the brush heads was challenging, but I haven't found that to be the case; they simply snap on and off, sort of like the top of a prescription medicine bottle. I was worried that I'd experience buyer's remorse after plunking down $225 at Sephora, but I'm happier than ever, especially since I'm pretty sure I'll be going for many fewer facials. I've also found what others here have said: after using this, my other facial products (hyaluronic acid in the AM, Vitamin C at night, plus moisturizers) really absorb into my skin much more readily. The unit feels sturdy and well-constructed; there's nothing 'cheap' about the whole product/package experience, which I'd expect for so much money. Very glad I purchased this.
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Powder -Bare Escentuals - Hydrating Mineral Veil
femmechirp 11/8/2008 10:24:00 PM
I've been a big fan of Mineral Veil for years (definitely a 'desert island' product for me), but notice (especially in the winter) that the original formulation can leave my skin a little drier than I'd like. And the Feather LIght version is way too shimmery for me (I always feel as though I look like I have a sheen of perspiration on my face when I wear it). I really love the Hydrating version. The applicator brush is far superior to the standard BE brushes that I've always used with Mineral Veil. The product gives you the same soft focus effect of original MV, but my face doesn't feel and look dry. Granted, I don't think this is actually moisturizing my skin, but it doesn't seem to be drying it out either.
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Mascara -L'Oreal - Double Extend Beauty Tubes
femmechirp 11/8/2008 10:19:00 PM
I have never been a far of L'Oreal mascaras. For some reasons, I've found them all very clumpy and unnatural looking. But, like one of the other reviewers, I was fascinated by the tubes/extension idea and decided to give L'Oreal one more try. Voila, I really like this product. The white part of the product definitely helps lengthen my lashes, the black (as others have noted) is very glossy and the stuff stays in place, all day, no matter what and then comes off in my evening shower with warm water. My lashes look long (but not freakishly so), thick and natural. The application really isn't a bother for me, especially in exchange for a look I really want/like.
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Gels/Soaps -Neutrogena - Comforting Butter Body Wash
femmechirp 2/29/2008 8:43:00 PM
Just started using this and the accompanying body cream/butter and love them both. The scent is a subtle cross between butter and vanilla and definitely does not clash with my perfume (either Chanel No. 5 or Calvin Klein Euphoria). I use the wash with a net sponge every day and my skin never feels tight and dry afterward, which it sometimes does even with expensive products. My elbows, heels and knees have been rough all winter, no matter what I tried, but not anymore, thanks to this stuff. I agree: a larger version of the body wash would be good. However, a little goes a very long way with a net sponge.
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